Music for Youth Appoints Professor Tony Harris as New Chair
Music for Youth Appoints Professor Tony Harris as New Chair
Music for Youth is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Tony Harris, Principal of ICMP (The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance) and the SAE Creative Media Institute, as the new Chair of the charity’s Board of Trustees.
Inspiring Leadership for the Next Chapter
Professor Harris succeeds John Dixon, who served as trustee for 17 years, many of those as Chair. Under Dixon’s leadership, Music for Youth expanded its reach, providing thousands of young people across the UK with opportunities to perform, collaborate, and receive mentoring feedback in world-class venues such as Symphony Hall, Birmingham and the Royal Albert Hall, London.
Tony Harris brings over 25 years of experience in music education, performance, and leadership. As Principal of ICMP and SAE, he oversees academic programmes across London, Leamington Spa, Liverpool, Leeds and Glasgow, and previously held senior posts at Nottingham Trent University and Birmingham Conservatoire. His work has spanned collaborations with the BBC, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, and the Maltese Philharmonic Orchestra ICMP.
A Vision for Youth Music
In his new role, Professor Harris will guide Music for Youth’s mission to ensure open access performance opportunities for young people across all genres of music. The charity’s ethos is rooted in inclusivity, nurturing talent from grassroots to professional stages, and celebrating the diversity of young musicians nationwide.
Professor Harris commented:
“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at Music for Youth. This charity has a unique and vital role in championing young musicians, offering them the chance to perform, learn, and grow. I look forward to working with the team to inspire the next generation of talent.”
About Music for Youth
Founded in 1970, Music for Youth is a national charity dedicated to showcasing the brilliance of young musicians across the UK. Each year, it engages tens of thousands of participants through regional festivals, mentorship programmes, and showcase events in communities and at national concert venues.
About ICMP
The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP) is a leading UK music school with campuses in London, Liverpool, and Leeds. For over 35 years, ICMP has been at the forefront of contemporary music education, offering personalised, industry-focused training to help students thrive in the competitive music industry.
Awarded Full Degree Awarding Powers in 2021, ICMP delivers innovative undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including specialisations in Music Performance, Songwriting, Music Production and Live Event Management.
With world-class facilities, a network of global partners, and expert tutors, ICMP provides students with the skills and connections needed for success in music and beyond.
For more information, visit icmp.ac.uk
About SAE
As a global home for creatives, SAE Institute is unparalleled, delivering an extensive range of creative technology and creative media programs to more than 12,500 students at 47 campuses in 19 countries. State-of-the-art facilities, teaching staff with strong industry experience and small class sizes provide students with an immersive learning environment that crosses borders and connects cultures in some of the world's most iconic locations.
Since 1976, SAE has continued to earn a strong reputation among students, industry, and employers around the world, through our delivery of highly relevant and practical curriculum, with embedded work placements and employment pathway opportunities. As part of our globally networked community in creative media, SAE graduates stand out from the crowd and leave their mark on the world.
For more information, visit sae.edu
About the author
Abbie Carlisle
Abbie works as part of the communications team, managing all digital content, such as the website, email marketing and social media. She also assists in traditional marketing promotion for our events. Abbie has a background in performing arts, and many years' experience in marketing and communications. She has also completed her CIM Level 4 and Level 6 qualifications.