Who we are
Music and the Deaf was founded in 1988 by Paul Whittaker, to help deaf people, and those who live and work them, access and enjoy music. For over 20 years we have worked with thousands of people across the UK, researched and written guides to making music with Deaf children, given hundreds of talks and signed theatre performances, led lots of workshops and set up a Deaf Youth Orchestra.
On these pages you’ll find more information about what we do, how to contact us and how to support us. Welcome to Music and the Deaf!
“The opportunities you give to young people is priceless.”
“I am amazed and touched by the work you do.”
“Looking back, I never thought any of this would be possible, we are all so proud of Liam’s achievements and I would fully recommend Music and the Deaf to others”
Paul Whittaker OBE: paul@matd.org.uk
Paul Whittaker was born in Huddersfield in 1964 and has been deaf all his life. He plays the piano and organ and has also trained choirs. Paul has a music degree from Oxford University, a post-graduate diploma from the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester, and in 2007 was awarded an OBE for Services to Music.
For 18 years Paul was a theatre interpreter and in 2010 gave the first ever signed performance at the BBC Proms – “Sondheim at 80.” Paul continues to work with the Edinburgh International Festival, Rambert Dance Company and The Sixteen choir.
As Music and the Deaf’s Artistic Director Paul is responsible for the creative and artistic development of the charity. For the past 4 years he has been very involved in Sing Up, of which Music and the Deaf was a flagship organisation, encouraging people to both sing and sign and creating signed song resources.
Danny Lane danny@matd.org.uk
Danny Lane joined Music and the Deaf as the Education Projects Manager in 2002. Much of his work has been focussed mainly on the Keys to Music publications, the West Yorkshire Deaf Youth Orchestra and the Hi-Notes ensemble which performed at the Royal Albert Hall in 2008 as part of the Schools Prom. He is currently leading the National Deaf Youth Orchestra and is involved in training young deaf music leaders.
Danny was brought up near Selby and has been profoundly deaf from birth. He obtained a degree in Music and French from the University of Keele and has also studied at the Universite d’Amiens in France. He plays the piano and enjoys classical music.
Tina Johnstone tina@matd.org.uk
Tina joined Music and the Deaf as administrator in August 2010. She’s worked in various office environments for over 20 years but this is her first time working with a charity. Tina is married to Peter and has a 2 year old daughter.
Trustees
The trustees of “Music and the Deaf” have wide experience of business, finance, education, music and deafness and are responsible for the overall management of the charity.
Phil Nathan Dave Seager Phil Robinson Sue Rosborough
