James Langley Memorial Trust

The James Langley Memorial Trust (JLMT) is a grant-making charity assisting the young musicians of the CBSO Youth Orchestra.

“The CBSO has always kept high on its agenda the need to support young musical talent, not least through its extraordinary dedication to music education within the community. I am immensely proud to be a patron of the James Langley Memorial Trust and wholeheartedly support their essential work.”

Kazuki Yamada
Music Director, CBSO
Patron, James Langley Memorial Trust
Photo © Zuzanna Specjal

The JLMT was established in 1995 in memory of James Langley (1927-94), a BBC Senior Music Producer, Trinity College of Music Examiner, composer and brass band competition adjudicator who devoted 38 years of voluntary service to the Midland Youth Orchestra (MYO) which was founded in 1956 by CBSO General Manager Blyth Major. James was a founder member of the MYO as a French Horn player, subsequently becoming its inspirational Conductor, Music Director and Chairman.

The original charitable objective of the JLMT was to award funding annually to MYO players. In 2004 the MYO was incorporated into the new CBSO Youth Orchestra and since that date the JLMT Trustees offer financial support to players in the current CBSO Youth Orchestra and to those who have left the orchestra within the twelve months preceding their application.

Past recipients are to be found throughout the music profession. Many are highly successful teachers, performers and music administrators, whilst others enjoy a diversity of careers in other areas.

Pictured here is 2025 JLMT recipient Zoe Bendall who was granted an award to pay for a new bow. Zoe says: “I am grateful for this award and so excited to be able to go bow-shopping! Having a better quality bow will help me develop my technique, and discover new sound colours from my cello. I can’t wait to start practising!”

To make an online donation to the JLMT, please click on the button below. Thank you for your support.

---

"I fully support the important work of the James Langley Memorial Trust in providing much needed financial aid to CBSO Youth Orchestra players. Jim would have loved this continuation of his life’s work, and it is a perfect memorial to a wonderful man."

Sir Simon Rattle OM CBE
President
James Langley Memorial Trust
Photo © Oliver Helbig