ABRSM has introduced a new Youth Advisory Board (YAB), aimed at amplifying the voices of young musicians across the UK. The initiative reflects the organisation’s evolving approach to music education — one that prioritises inclusivity, collaboration, and learner feedback as central to future development.

The Youth Advisory Board invites musicians aged 10 to 25 to contribute ideas, share insights, and help shape ABRSM’s work across syllabuses, publications, resources, communication strategies, and charitable activity. In doing so, it provides a structured platform for engagement, leadership development, and real-world insight into a global music education charity.

Advisory Groups and Structure

Participants are divided into three age-specific cohorts:

• Juniors (10–13)
• Seniors (14–17)
• Young Adults (18–25)

Each group engages in monthly online sessions, with occasional opportunities to take part in focus groups and collaborative projects. Meetings cover a broad spectrum of topics, from exam accessibility and curriculum design to public outreach and digital resources.

The board offers a space where young musicians can reflect on their experiences with music education, discuss challenges, and contribute to the evolution of ABRSM’s offerings. The role also enables participants to build peer networks and gain transferable skills useful in both creative and professional contexts.

Pathways for Participation

To introduce the initiative, ABRSM is hosting two free online information sessions on Tuesday 6 May 2025:

• Ages 10–15: 5:30pm–6:15pm (BST)
• Ages 16–25: 6:30pm–7:15pm (BST)

Each webinar offers a 45-minute overview of the Youth Advisory Board, including its purpose, structure, and the types of input members may be expected to contribute. Sessions are open to all — including those unfamiliar with ABRSM exams — and do not require previous participation in formal music qualifications.

Broader Strategic Context

The launch of the YAB aligns with wider trends in music education and cultural policy, which increasingly recognise the importance of youth-led consultation in shaping accessible, relevant programming. It also complements ABRSM’s recent efforts to broaden representation in its syllabuses, expand digital exam access, and strengthen its presence in underserved communities.

By establishing a dedicated space for youth feedback, the organisation is taking a step toward greater transparency and responsiveness in how it designs and delivers its services.

Next Steps

Musicians, educators, and youth leaders interested in the Youth Advisory Board are encouraged to visit www.abrsm.org or contact [email protected] for details on how to register for the webinar or express interest in future involvement.

The initiative offers more than insight into ABRSM’s inner workings — it provides a meaningful way for young people to influence the systems that support their musical growth.