New project to support young disabled musicians launches across Liverpool

DaDa has announced a major new ensemble project for young disabled musicians, following a funding boost from Youth Music Trailblazer and the PH Holt Foundation.

The year-long programme will run across the Liverpool City Region throughout 2026, offering young disabled people the chance to develop their musical skills, build confidence and be part of a professionally supported creative community. DaDa is now inviting young musicians to take part.

Designed to address the lack of regular, accessible music provision for disabled young people locally, the project will be delivered in partnership with specialist organisations. Participants will take part in inclusive ensemble sessions, receive mentoring and have opportunities to perform, all within an environment built around access, ambition and creativity.

The project builds on more than a decade of work by DaDa supporting disabled artists in the city region. Past participants include Liverpool-based musician Joshua Henderson, who released his debut album Songs for Liverpool with Friends in June 2024. The album’s success saw it stocked by HMV Liverpool, highlighting the long-term impact inclusive music programmes can have on young artists’ careers.

Throughout 2026, DaDa and specialist music practitioners will work with disabled young people aged 14 to 25 from across the Liverpool City Region, helping them refine their skills, collaborate with peers and grow as confident musicians.

The first ensemble group is now open for applications and will run from 2 March 2026 until the summer, meeting every Monday during term time at Resonate Music Hub in Liverpool.

DaDa is welcoming expressions of interest from young disabled musicians aged 14 to 25 who live in the Liverpool City Region and want to be part of the new ensemble.

Executive Producer Rachel Rogers said the funding will allow DaDa to address a long-standing gap in local provision.

She said: “We’re delighted that Youth Music and the PH Holt Foundation have recognised the importance of this project. There is a real lack of regular, inclusive music development opportunities for disabled young people in accessible environments.

“Over more than 10 years of running ensemble projects, we’ve seen the transformative impact this work can have, not just on musicianship, but on confidence, wellbeing and ambition. We’re excited to meet our next group of young musicians, who always bring fresh energy and ideas.”

Young musicians who took part in last year’s ensemble described the experience as “amazing”, with interviews and reflections available on the DaDa website.

The project is delivered with support from Youth Music, the PH Holt Foundation, Liverpool City Council and Arts Council England.

For more information or to get involved visit the DaDa fest website.

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