Fernleigh Orchestral and Arts Network (FOAN) offers quality orchestral training and performance opportunities, along with experienced pedagogical support and encouragement to young musicians across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter. 

Our aim is to encourage young orchestral players through a diverse repertoire of orchestral music, providing the highest quality orchestral education in a stimulating and rewarding environment. We foster interest and facilitate the development of players through a series of ensembles, including; 

• Young Musicians Orchestra 
• Wind Ensemble 
• Chamber Orchestra 
• Junior Strings 
• Cello Ensemble 
• Clarinet Ensemble 

The world-renowned expert on education and creativity Sir Ken Robinson said; 

“The role of a creative leader is not to have all the ideas; it’s to create a culture where everyone can have ideas and feel that they’re valued... education is not a process of directing instruction but to inspire, to feed curiosity and to facilitate”.

Underpinning any musical outcomes is our strong conviction that any form of co-operative venture with young musicians is a force for the development of trust, self-awareness and the co-operative spirit between musicians.

With the support of generous donors, FOAN will have the resources to provide opportunities to members who otherwise could not participate because of current cost of living pressures. 

In addition, financial support for other key areas will help us;

• Support endangered instruments such as French horn, oboe, bassoon and double bass through the hire of instruments and tuition
• Hold regular workshop tutorials with industry professionals, especially in the string ensembles
• Engage a leader for the Symphony Orchestra with the goal of mentoring a younger player to become assistant Concertmaster
• Contract professional soloists to perform with the major ensembles
• Facilitate major concerts
• Commission new works
• Support collaborations with other arts partners

Donations are tax deductible and can be one-off or regular contributions to FOAN. Thank you for your support.