Everywhere At Once Fest donates £100K to youth and music charities
The Power of the Scene: How Grassroots Music Festivals are Fueling Philanthropy
The UK’s grassroots music scene just proved that when communities unite around live music, they can achieve incredible things. Following its inaugural edition last summer, the nationwide festival ‘Everywhere At Once’ successfully raised £100,000 or $135,000 USD for four vital charities.
These funds were distributed equally, with War Child, Help Musicians, Teenage Cancer Trust, and Nordoff and Robbins each receiving £25,000 to support their crucial initiatives. This massive effort highlights the incredible collective strength of the independent music sector.
The success of the festival wasn’t just about raising money; it was about demonstrating the profound impact of a truly collaborative ecosystem. The event was powered by key organizations, including the Music Venue Trust (MVT), Save Our Scene, and the Association of Independent Promoters, all united by a shared mission: celebrating the vital role of local music venues.
The mobilization involved an astonishing number of participants, showcasing the deep connection between artists, venues, and fans. Over 400 grassroots music venues across the country took part, hosting more than 1,000 separate events. Furthermore, the festival provided a massive stage for talent, with over 2,000 artists taking to the stage, successfully bridging the gap between local communities and live music fans.
This shared experience brought together established stars like Becky Hill, Rizzle Kicks, and Fatboy Slim alongside countless emerging artists, creating a vibrant environment where everyone could connect with the power of music.
The £100,000 raised came from a combination of public donations, contributions from participating venues, promoters, and artists, alongside support from ticketing partner Ticketmaster. This funding targeted essential work across music, health, and youth welfare.
For War Child, the funds will support the protection of children affected by conflict. For Help Musicians, the money will help musicians navigate the daily financial and psychological hurdles of building sustainable careers. Teenage Cancer Trust will support specialist nurses and youth workers assisting young people facing cancer, and Nordoff and Robbins will deliver music therapy to vulnerable individuals, fostering connection and creativity.
Ultimately, the success of Everywhere At Once serves as a powerful reminder of what live music can achieve when the entire sector pulls together. As one representative noted, seeing the grassroots community come together is a powerful demonstration of the cultural importance of independent venues and their capacity for philanthropic good, especially when facing financial pressures.