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Meet the passionate team behind Music of Life

Patrons and Ambassadors

Making the music possible

We are deeply grateful to all those who support Music of Life as Patrons and Ambassadors. Our Patrons lend their name and profile to represent the charity and raise awareness of our mission, while our Ambassadors play a vital role in spreading the word – whether through fundraising, sharing contacts, or getting actively involved. Together, their commitment helps us reach more people and make an even greater impact.

Our patrons

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Dame Evelyn Glennie DBE
“Music of Life gives young people a remarkable platform to develop and showcase their musical talent alongside professional musicians, sharing both the responsibility and the excitement of performance. The experience often becomes life-changing — for them and for me.”

Evelyn became Patron of Music of Life in December 2005 after performing with the charity’s young musicians in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and London. Inspired by their talent, determination, and resilience, she proudly aligned herself with the charity’s mission to make music accessible to all, including musicians with disabilities.

Awarded Dame Commander of the British Empire in 2007, Evelyn Glennie is the world’s first full-time solo percussionist. Known for her innovation and versatility, she continues to redefine the possibilities of percussion through performances of extraordinary energy and originality.
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Denise Leigh
“If Music of Life had existed when I was a teenager, I might not have needed a TV reality show to become a professional singer.”

Denise won Channel 4’s Operatunity, a nationwide search for an amateur singer to perform Gilda in Verdi’s Rigoletto at the London Coliseum with the English National Opera.

Since her debut in 2003, she has performed worldwide in opera and oratorio, released two best-selling albums with EMI Classics, and appeared regularly on TV and radio.

Denise headlined the London 2012 Paralympic Opening Ceremony with the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by David Charles Abell. A long-time supporter of Music of Life, she offers invaluable insight into the challenges faced by blind musicians, helping to shape the charity’s work.

A former Trustee, Denise became a Patron of Music of Life in October 2012.

Our ambassadors

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Carolyn Sampson
Carolyn Sampson is a celebrated soprano equally at home on the concert and opera stages. She has performed with leading orchestras and ensembles worldwide, including the Berlin Staatsoper, NDR Elbphilharmonie, Bach Collegium Japan, and the Concertgebouworkest. In 2024, she marked her 100th solo album release, was awarded an OBE, and became an Honorary Member of the Royal Academy of Music.

Renowned for her versatility, Carolyn has appeared at major festivals such as the BBC Proms and Aldeburgh, and has sung principal roles for English National Opera, Scottish Opera, and the Boston Early Music Festival. A dedicated recitalist, she performs regularly at Wigmore Hall and major international venues, often with long-time collaborator Joseph Middleton. Their recordings on BIS have received wide critical acclaim.

Join our circle

Whether you’re a world-renowned artist, a passionate volunteer, or a quiet contributor behind the scenes — your voice matters. Help us reach more children through music.
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Statistics for the year 2024-25

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music opportunities for disabled children

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children supported across the country

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performances held in schools and concerts