Music for Youth Welcomes Two New Trustees to Its Board
Music for Youth (MFY), the national charity dedicated to showcasing the brilliance of young musicians from across the UK, is delighted to announce the appointment of new trustees to its Board. Each brings a wealth of experience and passion for arts, education, and inclusivity, further strengthening MFY’s mission to inspire and engage the next generation of musicians.
Penny Milsom has been committed throughout her career to helping young people develop through music, driven by her belief in its life-enhancing potential. The opportunity and access she herself enjoyed through school, county music provision and within higher education, especially in ensemble settings, enabled her love of music to grow early, as a keen amateur cellist and pianist. This in turn led her to bring her energies to a series of influential roles at ABRSM over more than three decades, working with teachers, schools, examiners and volunteers, and with other organisations passionate about music and music education. She joins Music for Youth as a Trustee in 2026, keen to bring her skills and enthusiasm to the goal of bringing together and inspiring the next generation of young musicians and showcasing their talents.
Alan Ridgeway is an experienced international business leader and trustee. Over a 22-year career with Live Nation Entertainment, he held several senior leadership positions, including Chairman Asia Pacific and Chief Financial Officer, leading business expansion across Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. He currently serves as Treasurer and Trustee of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and Trustee of the Rose Theatre in Kingston Upon Thames. Alan has a Masters in Economics from Cambridge University and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. Alan strongly believes that participation in music and theatre fosters creativity, confidence and personal growth in children.
Phil Castang MBE, CEO of Music for Youth, commented:
“We are thrilled to welcome these two outstanding individuals to our Board of Trustees. Their collective expertise will be invaluable as we continue to evolve and expand our programmes, ensuring that young people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to explore and develop their musical potential.”
MFY’s Board of Trustees plays a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s strategy, championing inclusivity, and maintaining the highest standards of governance. With their deep commitment to empowering young musicians and advancing music education, the new trustees will help guide MFY into an exciting future of innovation and impact.