Beyond the Instrument returned to the UK for another hands‑on activation rooted in access and opportunity. In partnership with Restore the Music—now for the fourth consecutive year—RCA Records UK/Since ‘93 artist Nectar Woode visited Co‑op Academy Belle Vue in Manchester, where she distributed a selection of instruments—including guitars, saxophones, and violins—to local students.
The day continued with a special performance from the Belle Vue students in front of Nectar, showcasing a mix of their own original pieces alongside covers of their favourite songs. Nectar followed with inspiring words and thoughtful feedback to help them build on their work. An engaging Q&A session gave the students the chance to hear more about her journey as an artist and her route into music. The visit culminated in a standout moment: Nectar’s performance of a brand‑new, unreleased track—much to the students’ delight.
Reflecting on the day, Nectar said: “It was such an inspiring day meeting the students. Co-op Academy Belle Vue has done such a great job at allowing the students to be free with their creativity and collaborate with other students. There was a real buzz when I walked into the classroom with students just being excited to talk about their creative process and that’s what it’s all about. It was a full circle moment for me, as I went to an Academy myself back in the day, so seeing what funding can really do within a school was super inspirational all around.”
Charlotte Edgeworth, Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Social Impact at Sony Music UK, said: “Beyond the Instrument continues to show just how powerful music can be in motivating and inspiring young people. It’s inspiring to see students at Co‑op Academy Belle Vue discovering new confidence and creativity through hands‑on access to instruments and the guidance of artists like Nectar. We’re proud to work alongside Restore the Music to ensure more young people have the opportunity to explore their musical potential and feel supported in their ambitions.”
This activation builds on a series of events marking the fifth anniversary of Beyond the Instrument. Earlier celebrations took place in the U.S. and Panama, underscoring the program’s growing global reach.
Since 2021, the Beyond the Instrument program grant has worked to accelerate equity and expand access to cutting‑edge music technology education for students in high‑need schools within historically excluded communities—and it continues to build on that mission with an eye toward even greater impact. The program has been active in California, Tennessee, Florida, London, Toronto, and Panama. Artists and songwriters who have served as mentors include Cat Burns, Noah Cyrus, Sigala, DIXSON, Theron Thomas, Schak, Aqyila, and Gloria Estefan, helping to inspire and guide the next generation of talent.
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