Local Music Academy Hits a High Note

From humble boot sale beginnings to award-winning success, Havering’s own Focus Music has been named Most Outstanding Music Service in London 2025.

Focus Music, which started just two years ago by hitting the heart of the community at local boot sales, is now thriving, teaching nearly 300 students across 14 primary schools.

This week the service was crowned Most Outstanding Music Service in London 2025, marking a major milestone in its journey. Adding to the excitement, the team is also a finalist for a prestigious national award and will represent Essex at a red-carpet event in Birmingham later this year.

Looking back, the founders keep a photo of their very first boot sale stall as a reminder of where it all began.

“We started with nothing more than an idea, some instruments, and a determination to bring music into children’s lives,” said Chris, one the founders of Focus Music.

“Two years later, to be recognised as the most outstanding music service in London is something we’re incredibly proud of. This award is a testament not just to our team, but to the children, families, and schools who have supported us from the start.”

The award cements Focus Music’s place as one of London’s most promising music education providers, rooted firmly in Havering’s community spirit and inspiring the borough’s next generation of young musicians.

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