Liphook’s Rocksteady Music School eyes global growth in new partnership

Rocksteady Music School, based in Liphook, Hampshire, has received investment from and entered into a new partnership with Vespa Capital, funded by alternative lender ThinCats.

Rocksteady runs progressive lessons in a band setting for tens of thousands of children across thousands of primary schools.

The Rocksteady Foundation also delivers over £2 million worth of free teaching each year through bursary places and provides hundreds of free charity events.

It allows some of the most vulnerable children in society to enjoy the wellbeing, fun and educational benefits of playing music in a band.

The funding from ThinCats via Vespa Capital will support Rocksteady in the rollout of lessons across the UK and internationally.

It will also allow the company to further develop technology aimed at reducing the attainment gap and providing children with an exciting music education.

Founded by Mark Robinson in 2007, Rocksteady is among the FT1000 Fastest Growing Companies.

Mark said: “17 years ago, I witnessed first-hand how many children were put off learning an instrument with outdated curricula and teaching methods.

“I wanted to break down barriers and empower more children with a music education that was enjoyable and enabled every child to succeed.

“I’m thrilled that this new partnership will lead to Rocksteady being enjoyed by many more children.”

Scott Monks, CEO of Rocksteady, added: “Building on Mark’s original vision and insights, the incredible team at Rocksteady have created a unique, for-profit, for-good business of scale, which ensures tens of thousands of primary school children get to experience the joy of music education and the wider social and academic benefits that performing in a Rocksteady band brings.

“Along the way, Rocksteady has become the largest employer of musicians on a full-time basis and is leading the way in measurement through an Ofqual regulated, exam-free music qualification, which harnesses an impressive propriety technology stack and revolutionises the way children are recognised for their achievements.

“We’re determined to bring the magic of Rocksteady to many more children worldwide, and are extremely excited about the experience and resources that Vespa Capital can contribute in this area.”

• rocksteadymusicschool.com

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