Old Carolians strike the right chord as President Nigel Geary’s music initiative gathers momentum
The sound of music is returning to King Charles I School – and thanks to the Old Carolians Association, a new generation of young musicians is about to take centre stage!
What began as an ambitious project launched in early 2026 by our new President, Dr Nigel Geary, has reached a major milestone.
On Thursday 5 November 2026, seven brand-new violins were officially handed over to the Music Department at King Charles I School, marking an exciting step towards establishing a flourishing tradition of classical music at the school and across Kidderminster.
Pictured at the presentation are Nigel Geary, Chrissie Morgan, Head of Performing Arts, and violin tutor David Joyce.
More Than Just Instruments – An Opportunity for Every Child
The initiative isn’t simply about providing instruments. It’s about opening doors, discovering talent and giving young people opportunities they might otherwise never experience.
In October, the school’s weekly newsletter invited Year 7 parents to apply for free violin lessons, complete with the loan of an instrument for the school year.
The lessons will be delivered by accomplished musician David Joyce, formerly Head of Strings at Shrewsbury School, whose tuition is being generously sponsored this year by the Roy Woodward Education Foundation, working alongside the Old Carolians’ instrument appeal.
David brings a wealth of experience, tremendous enthusiasm and a determination to inspire the next generation.
His Thursday afternoon violin lessons will be followed by an after-school youth orchestra session, open to all who wish to participate.
The ambition? To create something lasting – a thriving musical community that extends beyond the classroom and into the wider Kidderminster area.
A Musical Treat on the Horizon!
The excitement doesn’t stop there.
On Thursday 26 November, young musicians from the Kimichi School, based in Worcester and Acocks Green, will visit King Charles I School’s Borrington site to perform for the entire Year 7 cohort.
Pupils will have the opportunity not only to enjoy live performances but also to meet the visiting musicians, explore different instruments and even have a go themselves.
Who knows? The next great violinist, cellist or orchestral conductor might be sitting in that audience!
From a Broken Cello to a Growing Orchestra
Nigel has also demonstrated that a little determination can work wonders.
A school cello, previously broken in half during a classroom move, has been painstakingly repaired and returned to service.
With the seven new violins, the school now has eight violins, a cello and a double bass, alongside a selection of wind and brass instruments.
It’s a wonderful start – but there’s still much more to do.
Calling All Old Carolians – Have You Got an Instrument Gathering Dust?
Somewhere in a loft, garage or spare bedroom, there may be a forgotten violin, clarinet, flute, trumpet or other instrument just waiting to make music again. That’s what Old Carolian and retired Imperial College Professor Ray Rivers (1960) did in response to the launch of our music appeal early this year. Donating his wife’s antique violin, which was auctioned, enabled us to buy 6 of the new violins and fund repairs and servicing of donated instruments of all sorts.
Your donated instrument could change a young person’s life.
The Old Carolians Association is appealing to former pupils, members, families and friends to donate unwanted musical instruments, whatever their condition.
If you have something to offer, please contact Nigel Geary:
Email: nigel@geary.net
Telephone: 0780 110 6655
Nigel will be delighted to arrange collection or drop-off.
No Instrument? You Can Still Make a Difference!
Financial donations are equally welcome, and even modest contributions can make a genuine difference.
- £50 could fund half a day of music tuition.
- £150 could purchase a brand-new student violin.
Donations can be made directly to the Old Carolians Association:
Bank: Old Carolians Association
Sort code: 60-16-24
Account number: 57865523
Reference: MUSIC followed by your surname and initials
Let’s Make Some Noise!
The Old Carolians Association has always been about maintaining connections with our school and supporting future generations.
This project is a wonderful example of those principles in action.
Seven new violins may seem a modest beginning, but with dedicated teachers, enthusiastic pupils and the generosity of the Old Carolian community, they could become the foundation of something truly special.
Let’s help Nigel and his team turn seven violins into a whole orchestra.
Because every great musician has to start somewhere – and every great orchestra needs someone to strike the first note!
