A new Sheffield group has been established using the lingua franca of music to promote dialogue, connection and togetherness for refugees and asylum seekers. 

The Talking Music Group was founded by former BBC Young Musician of the year Naomi Atherton, with the objective of facilitating access of asylum seekers and refugees to classical music in Sheffield.

The group meets twice a month at the Montgomery Theatre, offering an intimate safe haven for some of the country’s most vulnerable. Inclusive conversations about music and the human struggle is followed by live performances. 

Ms Atherton, 58, is a professional french horn player with a burning passion for chamber and orchestral music. She won the BBC’s ‘Young Musician’ competition in 1984, has been featured on BBC Radio 3 and is in constant demand as a soloist and orchestral member – playing with Philharmonic and Ulster ensembles and performing for the BBC Proms. 

“Music transcends verbal communication,” she said. 

“I won’t let a language barrier prevent people from experiencing the genre I hold so dearly to my heart. It’s important to promote community with people fleeing war and destruction [so] as a mother and musician, I can’t help but combine these two passions.”

Whether it’s choir, string, brass or percussion; the group calls on local musicians who are prepared to talk about their instrument, the pieces they have chosen to play and finally, showcasing their talent in front of the attendees. 

She said: “We need to give people a sense of belonging, particularly those who have endured displacement, but we really need more regional artists to share their talent in order to attract more listeners and strengthen this collective.”

The group’s members, most of whom are refugees, describe the session as their golden ticket.

Isa Ibrahim, 15, originally from Syria, said: “I have made new friends here which I have struggled with in school. The music is beautiful.”

Ukrainian refugee Karina Yolana, 21, said she couldn’t believe how lucky she’d been to find the group and was looking forward to the next meeting.

One participant, who did not wish to give their name, said: “Life has been dark. By the grace of God, I am here, with these people who understand my struggle.”

Another added: “Hearing the viola reminded me of back home.”

The next session is on Thursday 22 May, 10.15am – 12pm, and the group is eager to see new faces, be it listening or performing. 

“We aren’t looking for professionals, just come along with a generous heart,” said Ms Atherton.

Contact the theatre on 0114 327 3456 to attend or for more information.