Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy

What Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy does

Nordoff and Robbins is the UK's largest music therapy charity, established as a registered non-profit in 1976 (with methodology roots to 1959). The organisation delivers music therapy services to vulnerable individuals — primarily autistic people, those living with dementia, people with learning difficulties, individuals with brain injuries or neurological conditions, people with life-limiting illnesses, those experiencing mental health challenges, and refugees/asylum seekers. All therapists are HCPC-registered and trained to Masters level, employing a proprietary "Nordoff Robbins Approach" — a music-centred, collaborative methodology pioneered by Paul Nordoff and Clive Robbins, in which therapist and client improvise together as equals rather than following a clinical curriculum.

The charity operates through two primary service channels: direct delivery at 13 centres across the UK and outreach partnerships with 391 organisations (SEND/SEMH schools, care homes, hospices, day centres, hospitals, and mental health charities), reaching 16,979 people and delivering 54,654 therapy sessions in 2024. Beyond service delivery, Nordoff and Robbins operates a vertically integrated training and research ecosystem, including a two-year Master of Music Therapy programme validated by Goldsmiths, University of London, plus short courses and a PhD programme, with training bases in London, Manchester, and Newcastle.

The organisation is entirely donation-funded (no government support) and generates revenue through individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and high-profile fundraising events — most notably the O2 Silver Clef Awards (running since 1976, celebrating 50 years in 2026 at the Royal Albert Hall for the first time), Music Mudder, and Carol Concerts. Additional revenue is derived from tuition fees for the MMT programme and short courses. Headcount is approximately 140 staff, structured as a company limited by guarantee and registered as a charity in both England (No. 280960) and Scotland (No. SC048817).

Name

Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy

Legal name

Nordoff and Robbins

Website

https://nordoff-robbins.org.uk

Company type

Private

Founded year

1976

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

101–250 employees

Short description

Nordoff and Robbins is the UK's largest music therapy charity, delivering free, HCPC-registered music therapy to autistic individuals, people with dementia, those with learning difficulties, mental health conditions, and other vulnerable groups through 13 centres and 391 partner organisations across the UK.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Music Therapy Services

NAICS

Services for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities (624120), Individual and Family Services (6241), Offices of Mental Health Practitioners (except Physicians) (621330)

SIC

Services-Social Services (8300), Services-Health Services (8000)

akta.pro primary industry

Music Therapy (Educational/Developmental Programs) (EDAMANAK)

Keywords

• Music therapy services
• Music therapist training
• Arts therapy charity
• Music therapy research
• Music therapy education

Headquarters

HQ city

London

HQ country

United Kingdom

HQ region

Europe

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Donations and Fundraising: The charity receives no government funding and is entirely reliant upon donations, fundraising campaigns, and charitable giving from individuals, music industry supporters, trusts, and foundations. This is the primary revenue source enabling delivery of music therapy services.
2. O2 Silver Clef Awards: The O2 Silver Clef Awards is a flagship annual fundraising event. Revenue is generated through ticket and table sales (ranging from £3,000 to £6,250 per table of 10), corporate sponsorships, and live auctions. In 2022, a George Michael piano auction raised a £200,000 donation.
3. Master of Music Therapy Education: Nordoff and Robbins offers a two-year Master of Music Therapy programme validated by Goldsmiths, University of London, as well as short courses and a PhD programme. Revenue is generated through tuition fees for professional training of music therapists.
4. Music Therapy Week and Community Events: Annual fundraising campaigns and community events including Music Mudder, Carol Concerts, Legends of Football, and Legends of Rugby. These events engage the music industry and general public to raise funds.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

Nordoff and Robbins is the UK's largest music therapy charity, delivering one-to-one and group music therapy sessions using its proprietary Nordoff Robbins Approach developed by founders Paul Nordoff and Clive Robbins. Therapists collaborate with clients through improvisation to support people who are autistic, living with dementia, learning difficulties, brain injuries, life-limiting illnesses, mental health issues, grief, trauma, and refugees. The charity also trains the next generation of music therapists through a Masters programme validated by Goldsmiths, University of London, alongside short courses and a PhD programme, and conducts research into music therapy practice.

Product overview

Nordoff and Robbins operates as a unified charity offering music therapy services alongside an education and training ecosystem. The core product is direct music therapy delivery through the Nordoff Robbins Approach, providing one-to-one and group sessions for individuals with autism, dementia, learning difficulties, brain injuries, mental health issues, and other vulnerabilities. This is supported by a comprehensive training arm consisting of the Master of Music Therapy (validated by Goldsmiths), short courses, and a PhD programme, which together develop the next generation of therapists while advancing research in the field. Community-facing offerings include the Community Choir, Adult Afternoon Group, and Accessible Music Learning programmes, while information hubs on dementia and mental health extend the charity's reach. The O2 Silver Clef Awards serves as the primary annual fundraising event.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• O2 Silver Clef Awards: Annual flagship fundraising event celebrating legendary musicians while raising millions for music therapy services.
• Music Mudder
• Master of Music Therapy (MMT)

Products and services

• Music Therapy Services One-to-one and group music therapy sessions delivered by trained Nordoff and Robbins therapists, working collaboratively with clients to create music and facilitate expression. Sessions are tailored to individuals with diverse needs including autism, dementia, learning difficulties, brain injuries, mental health issues, and life-limiting illnesses. Services are delivered free at point of use, funded through donations.
• Master of Music Therapy (MMT) A two-year masters-level programme validated by Goldsmiths, University of London, training the next generation of music therapists. Training bases are located in London, Manchester, and Newcastle.
• Short Courses Introductory and continuing professional development courses in music therapy for individuals seeking to learn about the field or advance their skills.
• PhD Programme Advanced doctoral research programme in music therapy, contributing to the wider understanding and evidence base of the field.
• Community Choir Group music-making activity open to community members, providing inclusive access to music participation and therapeutic benefits through collective singing.
• Adult Afternoon Group Specialised group music therapy sessions for adults, providing opportunities for social connection and musical engagement.
• Accessible Music Learning Programmes designed to make music education and participation accessible to individuals with disabilities or additional needs.
• O2 Silver Clef Awards The charity's flagship annual fundraising event, celebrating legendary musicians since 1976 while raising millions of pounds for music therapy services. The 2026 ceremony marks the 50th anniversary and will be held at Royal Albert Hall.

Quantifiable outcome

• In 2024, 391 partnership organisations were worked with, 16,979 people were reached with music therapy, and 54,654 music therapy sessions were held.
• +1 more outcomes

Named customers10 records

Segments8 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature2 records

Partnerships

22 partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and minor.

• O2coreGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026O2 has been a partner of the O2 Silver Clef Awards for 25 years, serving as kind sponsor of the Silver Clef Award. As a brand inspired by connectivity, O2 has been a consistent supporter of Nordoff and Robbins, helping raise vital funds while celebrating outstanding artists at the annual awards ceremony.
• Royal Albert HallcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 9 July 2026Royal Albert Hall announced Nordoff and Robbins as its official charity partner for 2026. The 50th anniversary O2 Silver Clef Awards will be held at the Royal Albert Hall for the first time. Nordoff and Robbins also has a music therapy unit at the Royal Albert Hall (opened 2015).
• AEG PresentscoreGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026AEG Presents is kind sponsor of the Best Male Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026. AEG Presents is a worldwide leader in live entertainment, operating across five continents. The company recognises Nordoff and Robbins' charitable work using the power of music to deliver life-changing impact.
• BarclaysmajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Barclays is kind sponsor of the Icon Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026, recognising Lily Allen's outstanding contribution to music. Barclays views Sport and Entertainment as a powerful platform for connecting with audiences and creating lasting impact.
• Legends GlobalmajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Legends Global is kind sponsor of the Best Group Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (Franz Ferdinand). Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands, with over 450 venues and 165 million guests annually.
• Live NationmajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Live Nation is kind sponsor of the Best Female Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (JADE). Live Nation Entertainment is the world's leading live entertainment company, comprised of Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship.
• Oak View GroupmajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Oak View Group is kind sponsor of the Innovation in Music Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (Ludovico Einaudi). OVG is the global leader in live-experience venue development and management, having opened Co-op Live in Manchester, the UK's largest live entertainment arena.
• OVOmajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026OVO is kind sponsor of the Legend Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (James). OVO shares Nordoff and Robbins' belief in the power of music to do good. OVO Live rewards customers with exclusive music venue access.
• PPLmajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026PPL is kind sponsor of the Contemporary Music Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (Max Richter). PPL is the UK music industry's collective management organisation for performers and recording rightsholders, distributing over £315 million in 2025 to 122,000+ performers.
• Raymond WeilmajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Raymond Weil is kind sponsor of the Global Impact Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (Melanie C). The family-owned Swiss watch house has a longstanding affinity with music and has partnered with Nordoff and Robbins for 26 years.
• Tysers LivemajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Tysers Live is kind sponsor of the Outstanding Achievement Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (Jessie J). Tysers Live is a global insurance division dedicated to servicing the entertainment industry, managing risk for music and live events.
• TicketmastermajorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Ticketmaster is kind sponsor of the Best New Music Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (Rachel Chinouriri). Ticketmaster is the world's largest ticket marketplace, processing 600 million tickets per year across 35+ countries.
• Uber Eats Music HallminorGTM or Marketing Partner · 9 July 2026Uber Eats Music Hall in Berlin is kind sponsor of the Best Live Act Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2026 (Sam Fender). The venue hosts up to 4,200 visitors and is proud to support Nordoff and Robbins' music therapy work from Berlin.
• George Michael Estate (Bechstein Piano Auction)majorGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2022In 2022, a live auction of George Michael's personal Bechstein piano at the O2 Silver Clef Awards raised a £200,000 donation for Nordoff and Robbins, the largest single donation in the event's history at that time.
• Wargrave House School and CollegecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2020Since 2020, Nordoff and Robbins has worked with Wargrave House School and College, which provides support to autistic individuals aged 5-25. Music therapy provides students with a space for enjoyment and emotional expression, reducing anxiety and increasing communication.
• St Mary's Care CentrecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2019Nordoff and Robbins partnered with St Mary's Care Centre (63-bed nursing home in Birmingham) in 2019. The home supports dementia, early onset dementia, enduring mental health issues, and brain injuries. Music therapy has been transformative for residents, restoring sense of self identity.
• Enable GlasgowcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2018Nordoff and Robbins has partnered with Enable Glasgow since 2018. Enable Glasgow provides supported living for 22 adults with learning disabilities, dementia, and autism. Music therapy supports clients in building relationships, providing emotional release, and offering engagement for those at end of life.
• Royal Marsden Hospital Teenage Cancer UnitcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2017Nordoff and Robbins has partnered with the Teenage Cancer Unit at The Royal Marsden Hospital since 2017. The unit serves young people aged 16-24 in a purpose-built facility. Music therapy provides patients with an outlet for self-expression and opportunities to engage with each other.
• ReCoCo (Recovery College Collective)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2017Nordoff and Robbins first collaborated with ReCoCo, an independent peer-led mental health charity, in 2017. Through music therapy, people supported by ReCoCo connect over shared music interests, collaborate, practice, and perform together.
• Moorlands ViewcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2011Nordoff and Robbins has partnered with Moorlands View, an NHS inpatient unit for men with mental health problems in low-security conditions, since 2011. Music therapy is delivered two full days per week and is highly valued for supporting recovery, reducing isolation, and building community.
• Parkstone Connect Day CentrecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2007Nordoff and Robbins has partnered with Parkstone Connect Day Centre since 2007. The centre supports adults with a wide range of needs. Music therapy has created opportunities for engagement and self-expression, helping clients with dementia find calm and former guitarists regain confidence.
• Goldsmiths, University of LondoncoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1995Nordoff and Robbins created its Master of Music Therapy programme in 1995-1997. The programme is validated by Goldsmiths, University of London, and is a two-year Masters-level qualification. Nordoff and Robbins also has a PhD programme and offers short courses.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Market position

Competitive moat4 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

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Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

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M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy