It is with great sadness that we share the news that Elli Chapman, OFA’s Wellbeing Lead 2021-22, passed away suddenly last week.
Elli joined Orchestras for All in July 2021 as the charity’s first Wellbeing Lead, focussing on supporting the development of young people’s personal, social and wellbeing needs within the National Orchestra for All.
Elli Chapman, Orchestras for All’s Wellbeing Lead 2021-22, at a National Orchestra for All course in 2022
NOFA Programme Manager, Paula Morgan, said: “I am deeply saddened to hear the news about Elli's passing. We worked closely together on the wellbeing of our young participants in National Orchestra for All. Elli was a strong, passionate woman who brought so much knowledge and expertise to OFA. She was a brilliant support to the young people and families. Elli cared deeply about the young people we were supporting by creating a safe, supported environment for them. Her energy brought a lot of joy to courses, so much love and kindness. She would bound into the room with her colourful hair and big smile and make everyone feel at ease.
“Elli was also a phenomenal advocate for people with disabilities and for access to the arts, the world has lost a strong voice and a very special person. My thoughts and condolences go to her family, and all the people she has made an impact on through her life, of which there will be many.”
Orchestras for All’s Team, Trustee and Youth Board Away Day in 2021
Based in Lancaster, Elli worked on a variety of arts programmes ranging from being a Board member at Curious Minds and the National Dance Company Wales through to founding Culture Works (East) and being a Fellow of the Clore Social Leadership programme in 2017-18.
Orchestras for All’s Executive Director, Nick Thorne, said: “Elli was an inspirational role model to both members of NOFA and our team who strengthened and developed a lot of our wellbeing practice and techniques that we still use today. Elli was someone who showcased exactly what was possible if you put your mind, heart and soul into something and was extremely passionate about making the arts more diverse, inclusive and accessible.
“This passion shone throughout all her work with us, from recruiting new colleagues, delivering training sessions and supporting young people, through to attending and feeding into our strategy away days. Her legacy will remain part of our work and culture at Orchestras for All for a very long time.”
Remembering Elli Chapman, Orchestras for All’s Wellbeing Lead 2021-22
On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, our thoughts and condolences are with Elli’s family and friends.
To conclude our tribute, we’d like to re-share Elli’s top tips on supporting your own wellbeing:
Take a moment to breathe and be present in the moment.
Try and do five things every day that are just for you. These could be small things – playing your favourite tune on the piano, painting your nails, talking to a friend or family member, or spending time with your nose in a book.
Make a gratitude jar and fill it with moments (written on post-its) about things you have done that made you happy or proud, or other memories you want to keep. Take them out whenever you need a reminder or are having a bad day.
If you’ve been affected by this story please do seek support of your friends, family or alternatively visit the Cruse Bereavement Support website.
