UK National Lottery Heritage Fund to Support Music Hub

The fund is providing £4.7 million to Heritage Works to transform Sheffield’s Canada House into a regional music hub

Dedicated to promoting the education and appreciation of the performing arts, the UK’s Harmony Works Trust has recently secured a £4,677,306 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to go toward the restoration of the historic Canada House in Sheffield.

Originally built in 1875 as offices for the Sheffield United Gas Light Company, Canada House will now become a new home for music education, including spaces for rehearsals and performances. 

The new hub will house organizations including the Sheffield Music Academy, Sheffield Music Hub, Brass Bands England, Music in the Round, Choir with No Name, Orchestras for All, and Concerteenies. 

Additionally, the venue will work closely with The University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, and The Sheffield College. The hub is set to open in the fall of 2027, BBC News reports. 

“We are incredibly grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting our ambitious project,” said Harmony Works Project Director, Emily Pieters in the press release. “While we are not quite over the line yet, this funding commitment is a major step in preserving the historic Canada House, and realising our long-term vision of creating a vibrant new music hub that will inspire and nurture the creative potential of young people and their communities.

“In the 1980s, Canada House was known as TurnUps nightclub, a popular spot for young music lovers,” she added. “It’s amazing to think that in just three years time, these walls will again be filled with music — this time, created by young people for others to enjoy.” 

“It is fantastic news that we’re supporting the restoration of Canada House in Sheffield, a truly fantastic building,” reflected Helen Featherstone, Director for England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund. “Saving heritage is a priority for the Heritage Fund and thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, this project will safeguard the historic building by bringing it back into use as a music hub and providing exciting opportunities for young people and communities across South Yorkshire.” 

“Culture runs through every community in Sheffield, and we are committed to putting it at the heart of everything we do,” added Cllr Martin Smith, Chair of Economic Development and Skills Committee at Sheffield City Council. “Harmony Works will be a home for inspirational music education and opportunity in our city. Not only will this benefit young people across South Yorkshire, but this further funding will also allow us to protect an important heritage asset.”