A multi-award-winning charity using music to support people affected by addiction
Presenting Found, a powerful new film from New Note Dance
Devised by our Artistic Director Lauren Dowse and directed by filmmaker Angus Cameron, Found brings the spiritual principles of the 12-Step recovery programme to life through movement and storytelling.
New Note Orchestra to record album with the London Philharmonic Orchestra
“Partnering with New Note Orchestra is a powerful example of how music can reach beyond the concert hall and into communities where creativity plays a vital role in healing and connection. For our players, it’s a chance to be part of something truly meaningful – supporting people in recovery through shared artistry and collaboration.”
Claudia Clarkson , London Philharmonic Orchestra
Join us for the live album recording at Worthing Assembly Hall on 23rd September – tickets are free!
Our 2025 Key Changers participants complete their training in community music
We designed the Key Changers Artistic Development and Leadership Programme to train, mentor and support musicians who have been affected by addiction to become community musicians. Our 2025 participants have completed the course, ready to deliver engaging and accessible music workshops in community settings like homeless hostels and addiction centres.
New Note Orchestra receives the King's Award for Voluntary Service!
This is a tremendous achievement, and it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the musicians and volunteers involved. The KAVS is the highest award given to local voluntary groups in the UK, and it is awarded for life. This means that the New Note Orchestra will now be recognized as a leading voluntary organization in the UK, and it will continue to inspire others to get involved in their communities.
New Note Orchestra as an exemplary model
New Note’s working practices were included in a report by the Centre For Social Justice as an exemplary recovery model working in the community. This report was circulated to central government to build a picture of drug and alcohol services across the country.
How we make a difference
Founded in Brighton in 2015, New Note Orchestra is the world’s first orchestra for people in recovery. We create a safe, welcoming space to make music, find connection, develop new skills and rebuild lives. Our programmes support every stage of the recovery journey – from early recovery to gaining employment as workshop leaders.
Our musicians compose and perform original works, blending acoustic, electric, folk and classical sounds to create music that is atmospheric, moving and powerful.
Since our launch, we’ve developed new projects that use music and creativity to support people in recovery. They are free and available to anyone affected by addiction, regardless of ability.
Come along and try a session, or support our work. Together we can make positive change through music.
Our projects
New Note Orchestra – the first recovery orchestra in the world, which meets weekly.
New Note Strummers – a weekly guitar group for beginners and intermediates.
New Note Dance – a monthly session designed to support women affected by addiction, trauma or adverse life challenges.
New Note Key Changers – our innovative new training programme where participants with lived experienced are trained to deliver community music workshops.
We are proud to be a member of the Addiction Recovery Arts Network; an exciting collective of groups and individuals working within the recovery arts sector.
