Cambridge will be alive with music this October as Learn to Play ’25—the UK’s largest free music-making weekend—comes to the city, offering residents the chance to try an instrument for free.
Hosted by national charity Music for All, the event takes place at Cambridge Comhaltas from 9–12 October. It’s open to everyone, no matter their age, background, or musical experience. Attendees can enjoy a free taster music lesson and explore the joys of making music in a welcoming environment.
Now in its second decade, Learn to Play aims to inspire both beginners and lapsed musicians to discover the benefits of music-making, while supporting local music educators and providers. The event arrives at a critical time, with continued cuts to arts education making it harder for young people to access quality music tuition.
Music for All’s General Manager, Sonali Banerjee, says the impact of music goes far beyond the stage.
“Engagement in music is linked to reduced depression, anxiety, and pain, and improved quality of life. Learn to Play activities are needed now more than ever, and we aim to inspire as many people as possible to experience the unique joys and benefits of music making.”
The health benefits of playing music are backed by science. A 2024 study in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that playing an instrument supports memory and problem-solving in older adults due to the “multiple cognitive demands” of the activity. Similarly, a 2022 Age UK study found that those who learned music in childhood enjoyed improved thinking skills in later life.
Local residents who have tried Learn to Play in the past speak highly of the experience. “It was a brilliant opportunity to see if I could learn an instrument,” said participant Lyn Watts, who went on to take regular piano lessons after her taster session.
Learn to Play ’25 is supported by the NAMM Foundation and The Foyle Foundation, with partners including Yamaha Music London and Black Lives in Music.
Anyone interested can visit the Learn to Play ’25 website, find Cambridge Comhaltas on the interactive map, and register directly.
