The theme for National Storytelling Week 2026 (2-8 February) is Soundtrack Your Story – a celebration of the musical threads that shape who we are. Every young person has a soundtrack: the songs they play on repeat, the rhythms they feel in their bodies, the beats signed through British Sign Language, the soundscapes of everyday life. Music tells our stories long before we speak or write them.
Music doesn’t just accompany words – it connects us to them. Research shows that exploring stories through lyrics is a powerful way to re‑engage young people with creativity, helping them rediscover enjoyment in both reading and writing. More than 3 in 5 children and young people aged 8–18 (60.7%) regularly read song lyrics digitally, and almost 1 in 5 (17.8%) write their own lyrics on-screen at least once a month. Storytelling is already happening through the music they love.
We also know just how impactful music can be for learning, confidence, emotional wellbeing and resilience. That’s why we’re so passionate about creating opportunities for young people to make music together, discover their voice, and express the stories that matter to them.
Explore what’s on offer at music centres across the county.