Wiltshire Rural Music bring live music and music making workshops to communities within Wiltshire. We support young people with bursaries and instrument hire, as well as hosting events, music groups and recitals at our Trowbridge hub.
About us
Wiltshire Rural Music (WRM) is a vibrant grassroots music hub whose purpose is to create opportunities for everyone in the county to participate, appreciate and celebrate music making from African drumming to top-level professional chamber music.
Our Heritage
We were established in 1933 as The Wiltshire Rural Music School and have proudly been an independent charity ever since.
Initially, activities were mainly of a choral nature, concerts being held annually on Founder’s day and Children’s Day, supported by instrumental teachers and students. Later, village groups would combine to perform under the baton of a distinguished conductor, of whom Sir Adrian Boult was one. Other early supporters included Henry Walford Davies, Thomas Armstrong, David Wilcocks and Ernest Read.. The first Summer School was held at Bratton Hall in 1944.
Following the 2nd World War, whilst retaining its independent role in the community, WRMS assumed the task of providing instrumental tuition on behalf of the Local education Authority. However, in 1979 the County took full responsibility for Music within the school curriculum, though its West Wilts Music service continued to use our premises. In 1998 however, the Wiltshire Music Centre opened in Bradford on Avon, and the County music staff relocated there. This ended our official link with the County but permitted more time and space to be devoted to the needs of the wider community.
In 1953 Jean Horsfall was appointed Musical Director of WRMS, and the current success of the School is in great part the result of her inspirational leadership, having also founded the much-acclaimed County Youth Orchestra in 1964. Jean formally retired from her post at WRMS in 2000, but continued to be active in support and facilitating our efforts for a considerable time thereafter.
In 2018 the charity became known as Wiltshire Rural Music (WRM).
Meet the team
Daisy Chapman, Publicity and Creative Director
Daisy is an accomplished singer, songwriter, lyricist and composer. She started her musical career after leaving University in Bristol and quickly began touring her songs across the UK and Europe, but also as far as the USA and China.
Daisy currently teaches piano to children around the county and is committed to bringing music education to children and adults alike. Daisy lives in Trowbridge with her husband, young daughter and dog, Piper.
Sue Dawson, Administrator
Sue has worked for WRM since 2004, developing the role of administrator within the organisation, and continues to enjoy working alongside a team of volunteers and professionals to deliver a music service aimed at the community. She lives with her husband, grown up children (and dog), enjoys the great outdoors, listening to live music of various genres, and nights out at the theatre.
Rachael Holtom, Fundraiser
Rachael started working as Wiltshire Rural Music’s Fundraising Consultant in May 2023 and she has a real understanding of how arts activities of all types (music, drama, visual arts and museums/heritage) can give real meaning and enjoyment to people’s lives. She has really enjoyed working in the culture sector for 25 years, mostly in museums and heritage sites in roles from collection care, costumed guided tours, education and community work to events and exhibitions.
Board of Directors
WRM has an elected Board of Directors who oversee the charity and have responsibility of the running of the organisation.
Chairman of the board: Peggy Snell (pictured)
Vice Chairman: Graham Coatman
Treasurer: Sheila Parker
Other directors on the board: Prof. Amanda Bayley, Doug Benson, Trevor Carbin, Emma Davies, Lorna Davis, Vernon Hitchman, Philip Springate, and Andrew Stonham.
Wiltshire Council Representative who also sits on the Board of Directors: Ian Thorn
Wiltshire Rural Music Business Plan 2021-2024
Articles of Association
