How Music Creates Connection, Expression and Belonging

Phoenix Rising is a programme run by Coventry Music Service that provides music tuition and group experiences for care-experienced young people, giving them the opportunity to make music together, meet new people, build confidence, and have fun! We asked Mark Steele from Coventry Music to explain more about the project, ahead of their session at the Music Mark Conference 2026.

Who are Phoenix Rising?

Phoenix Rising is a dedicated band for care-experienced young people, created through a partnership between Coventry Music, Coventry Virtual School and Children’s Services. It grew from a small programme of individual and group music lessons into a supportive community where young people can create, perform and develop together.

What do they do?

Phoenix Rising gives young people consistent, meaningful opportunities to make music, express themselves and build confidence. Through rehearsing, creating and performing together, members develop friendships, creativity, aspiration and a sense of belonging. The partnership also provides trusted relationships and maintains lifelong links with young people as they leave care.

What will you be discussing in your session at the Music Mark Conference 2026?

In their session, ‘Phoenix Rising: the Origin Story to Our Band’ Mark Steele from Coventry Music will be joined by Mikaela Carrasco, Headteacher, and Katy Dolden, Engagement Officer, from the Virtual School. Together, they will share how the partnership developed from a small number of lessons into a programme offering sustained, meaningful opportunities for care-experienced young people.

Young people’s messages will be at the heart of the session, bringing the Phoenix Rising story to life through their own thoughts and experiences. The speakers will explore how music can support expression, identity and lived experience when words alone may not feel enough, as well as how trusted partnerships can overcome barriers and create opportunities for young people to thrive.

What are the two or three main things you want delegates to understand after the session?

1. How to develop a progression model from school to music group for children in care
2. How to develop Partnership working with your Virtual School
3. The significance of giving space to care experienced young people to express themselves

Don’t miss your chance to join the Coventry Music session, as well as many more inspirational talks at the Music Mark Conference 2026 on the 16th and 17th November, in Liverpool. The full programme is available to explore here, and don’t forget to book your tickets now!