We’re thrilled to announce that Nicóla Shaw, brass educator and Adams Flugelhorn artist, has been shortlisted for this year’s Music Mark Awards in the Unsung Hero category – recognising her remarkable contribution to music education across South Manchester.
The Music Mark Awards celebrates the achievements of those helping to provide inclusive, accessible, and high-quality music education for young people across the UK. This year marked the highest number of nominations for the Music Awards yet, reflecting the outstanding talent and commitment of music educators nationwide.
“Nicóla has revolutionised music at her school – creating ensembles, inspiring learners, and opening brass opportunities that empower students to excel, perform, and believe in their musical potential.”
Music Mark
Since stepping back from full-time banding three years ago, Nicóla has dedicated her time and energy to inspiring the next generation of musical talent. She has founded and led five new Youth Brass Ensembles across Didsbury, Chorlton, Hale and Altirincham, supporting both primary and secondary school pupils.
Inclusion lies at the heart of Nicóla’s approach, ensuring every child feels involved in the music-making journey. For each ensemble, she composes and arranges her own flexible band music, designed to accommodate everyone from complete beginners to Grade 6+ players, ensuring everyone can play and perform together.
At Chorlton CE Primary School, Nicóla directs a vibrant brass band of 28 pupils. Delivered through One Education Music, her work has made a lasting impact on the community, leading to her nomination for the prestigious Unsung Hero Award.
“All of my students at Chorlton have continued through One Education’s ‘We Can Play’ scheme. For anyone who doubts the impact of whole-class brass, it really does work! Every child in Year 4 learns brass as a full class, and those who want to continue can take lessons in Years 5 and 6 and are invited to join our after-school Brass Band. Last year, 22 out of a class of 30 signed up!
Many of those students who started with us two years ago are now at Chorlton High School, where I teach and lead the wind section in the Big Band. So I get to keep working with them and watch their progression. We’ve built a really strong pathway that encourages continuation. It’s amazing to have a system in place that can lead to long-term participation.”
Nicóla Shaw
Congratulations Nicóla and best of luck at this year’s Music Mark Awards!
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