Friends and Best Friends of Jackdaws

The Friends of Jackdaws provide enormous support by contributing to a regular income for Jackdaws.  Jackdaws’ programme of courses runs throughout the year alongside a programme of music education for young people. Apart from a small grant from Mendip District Council, however, Jackdaws receives no arts subsidy. We are reliant on the fees we charge for our courses, supplemented by donations from grant making trusts and individuals and most importantly, subscriptions from our Friends.  In order to maintain our weekend music courses and our full programme of educational activities, Jackdaws needs to raise some £60,000 each year.  

The support of our Best Friends and Good Friends is vital and very much appreciated and in return, we aim to offer some benefits to members. All Best Friends and Good Friends receive a 10% discount on fees for all weekend music courses as well being able to book in advance. Friends also receive a regular newsletter with special offers exclusive to Friends.  Best Friends are entered into a monthly prize draw with a £50 cash prize.  

You can become a Jackdaws Friend and help our work introducing young people to the joys of music, from as little as £5 a month. To join please complete the application form and Standing Order Mandate and send it back to us and we will do the rest.

Benefits of Membership 

  • 10% Discount on all courses
  • All Good Friends and Best Friends receive a 10% discount on all course bookings in addition to advance booking privileges. 
  • Advance Booking
  • All Friends will receive advance mailings about Jackdaws concerts and courses with the ability to book before the general public.
  • Invitation to Exclusive Friends Events
  • An invitation to three special Friends events each year
  • Support acknowledged  in Jackdaws  Annual Report
  • Good Friends and Best Friends will be listed in Jackdaws Annual report
  • Guest tickets for the Great Elm Vocal Awards
  • Two guest tickets for Jackdaws Great Elm Vocal Awards held annually at the Wigmore Hall each October
  • Twice Yearly Newsletter
  • All Friends receive a twice yearly newsletter updating them on Jackdaws’ news and
  • activities
  • Monthly Raffle for Best Friends
  • Best Friends are also entered into the monthly raffle which has a  £50 prize

Membership Rates

Good Friend        £5 per month
Best Friend        £10 per month

Contact the Membership Secretary Angela Bowen - email: for further details or tel 01373 467775

Charities Aid Foundation - See NEWS page