Education and community engagement are at the heart of the Borders Music Festival, and our 2026 programme is the most ambitious we have delivered to date.
In partnership with Scottish Borders Council’s Instrumental Music Service (IMS), the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and local schools, we are delivering a series of workshops and immersive projects across the festival week.
SNYJO Big Band Workshop – Peebles High School
On Tuesday 15th September, members of the Scottish National Youth Jazz Orchestra work with the IMS Big Band at Peebles High School. The day culminates in a free public showcase performance at 3pm — all are welcome.
SCO Immerse Project – Galashiels Academy
Also on Tuesday 15th, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s acclaimed Immerse project brings a full day of creative music-making to Galashiels Academy.
Primary Schools Singing Workshop – St Mary’s School, Melrose
On Friday 18th September, primary school children from across the Borders take part in a singing workshop, with a free showcase for parents at 11:30am.
SCO VIBE Showcase – Galashiels Academy
The festival closes with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s VIBE Showcase at Galashiels Academy on Sunday 20th September at 3pm – a high-energy orchestral performance open to the public and free to attend.
We are incredibly proud of our education programme and grateful to our partners at SBC IMS and the SCO for making it possible.