Funding boost brings music hub closer

A Sheffield-based music education charity is moving closer to delivering a cultural project thanks to a new funding pledge.

Harmony Works has received £300,000 from the JG Graves Charitable Trust, bringing the transformation of Canada House into a new music hub for young people a step nearer. 

The pledge adds to support already secured from national and regional funders, meaning the trust has raised the majority of its £14 million target, with just over £1 million still to be secured.

Emily Pieters, project director at Harmony Works, said: “We are delighted and deeply grateful to the JG Graves Charitable Trust for their generous support. 

“This local backing makes a huge difference and sends a powerful message that Sheffield believes in this project. 

“Thanks to this pledge, we’re closer than ever to creating a permanent home for inspirational music making in the heart of Sheffield. 

“But we’re not quite there yet – we still need to raise just over £1 million to complete the transformation of Canada House. 

“If you believe in music, heritage and young people, now’s the time to get involved.”

Dona Womack, chair of J G Graves Charitable Trust, added: “We are delighted to support Harmony Works with this important project to establish a new city centre home for music education in Sheffield. 

“This exciting initiative revitalises one of Sheffield’s great historic buildings and will create a warm, welcoming base for music education that provides inspiring opportunities for young people to find their talent and enrich their lives through music. 

“Trustees were especially impressed by the potential of Harmony Works to connect young people from across the region, fuelling their growth and development for generations for come.”

Canada House, a Grade II* listed building dating back to 1875, was acquired by the Harmony Works Trust last year. 

Best known to many as TurnUps nightclub in the 1980s, it will be redeveloped into a centre of excellence for music education, welcoming partners including Sheffield Music Academy, Sheffield Music Service, Concerteenies and Brass Bands England.

Construction is expected to begin next year, with the hub due to open in late 2027.

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