Company registration number. 04056093 Charity registration number: 1083903 Clonter Farm Music Trust Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 Decembèr 2024 Iww AECYQ9ZF 1111012025 COMPANIES HOUSE A03
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Bright Partnership Llmited Suite 1 Armcon Business Park London Road South Poynton Stockport England SK12 1LQ
Clonter Fann Muslc Trust Contents Reference and Administrative Details Trustees, Report 2to18 Independent Examinerfs Report 19to20 Statement of Financlal Activities 22 Balance Sheet 23to24 Statement of Cash Flows 25 Notes to the Flnancial Statements 26to33
Clonter Farm Muslc Trust Reference and Admlnlstratlve Detalls Trustoes N Mathias, Chairman Lady A K Pilkingion MBE S Farmer J J Meadmore E J Blood D Billings Secretary N Mathias, Chairman Charlty Rogistratlon Numbor 1083903 Company Reglstratlon NuMr 04056093 R•gl•t•r•d Offic• Clonter Opera Theatre Swettenham Heath Congleton CW12 2LR Independent Examln•r Bnght Partnershlp Limited Suite 1 Amicon Business Park London Road South Poynlon Stockport England SK12 1LQ Barcl8ys Bank PIC 22 London Road Alderley Edge Cheshire SK9 7EA Bank•rn
Clonter Farm Music Trust Trustees. Report Clonter Opera Thèatre was found•d in 1974. gaining charltable status as Clont•r Farm Music Trust (CFMT) and a company Ilmited by guaranto• in 2000. Clonter'8 educatlon outr•aeh programme for schools In the Northwest flrst galn•d ¢haritabl• status In 1990. The Truslms. who ar• also directors of tho charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financlal slalemènts of the charity for the yoar ended 31 December 2024. The Trusteos have adoptéd the provlslons of Accountlng and Roportlng by Charllles: Statement of Recommended Pracllce appllcable to charltles preparlng th8lr accounts In accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effecliv• 1 Janupry 2019) The Trugt operato8 Irom Clonter Opera Theatre, Swètt•nham Heath. Congleton, Cheshlro, and Is the only rural vonue4)a8•d opera company In the Northwest of England. dedlcated to emerging artists. OBJECTIVES, AIMS AND ACTIVITIES 1. Objectlves and Alms of Clonter Farm Muslc Trust ICFMn Charltabl• ObJectlv•• 1.1.To identify and provide high quality training and experience of performing publicly for persons embarking on professional musical careers from conservatoires across the United Kingdom, and now to recent graduates, lo establish such courses of training and tuition, and such public concert stage and other P8rfomiances, as the Trustees shall see fit, through an Emerging Artist programme whlch inejudes the Clonter Opera Prlze compelltlon held in February and a filmed recital offered to the wlnner and runner up. May Masterelasses and Showease ¢on¢ert as well as a November studlo and showcaso performances will be performed on the Clonter stage. 1.2. To make courses accessible with bursaries. paylng all, or part of, the expenses of persons incurred in the attending of such courses. 1.3. When appropriate, professional development opportunities are offered to more establlshed artlsts. 1.4. To bridge the gap between conservatoire and professional work, offering cast members an environment in which to network, develop their craft, and share an artistic experience with others who enjoy and support Ihe Arts. 1.5. The extenslon beyond the conservaloires in recent years. is seen as contributing to aiding partlelpants nelworking potential still further by providing the ability to make conneclions wilh those aladY out in the profession. and more international conneclions. 1.6. To select repertoire that is both useful for emergin9 singers and accessible to newcorners to opera. (Thls was in one draft last year, but it got removed for some reason - I vffjuld like to broker ils reinstatement, as I think it is pertinent). 1.7. To extend professional development opportunities to emerging professional designers and stage crew whenever possible.
1.8. To provide perforniance opportunities for emerging artists from other musical genres. 1.9, To advance and promote the appreciation. enjoyment and a¢ssIbl11ty of the art of music and drama to our local communlty as w11 as the general public more natlonally, Including the elderly and other marglnalised groups, as w¥ll as SchClS and colleges. 1.10. To offer free wofkshops to schools wilhin post4ndustrial and rural 'cold spots" of the Northwest of England introducing them to artforms and creative skills they may never olher4vise experience or have the opportunity to develop, with the belief that 8V8ry child should have access to high-quality music making. 1.11. To offer Subsidised Extemal Hires lo other local perfom)ing arts organisations. CFMT considers the provision of subsidised extemal hire as an ext8nsion of its collaboration policy, as well as an extension of its core aims. 2. Actlvltles The Trust achieves the above objectives through the following activities: 2.1. Opera Programme8 - With the staging of Its own Annual Opera Productlon with specially reduced orchestrations and without choruses, Clonter focuses it resources on showcasing artists performing principal roles, The awarding of an annual Opèra Prizè (where 6 singers, nominated by the UK'S leading conservatolres, come head lo head, for a singing competillon at Clonler), and Ihe provision of Iwo opera sludios, culminating in showcase conrkrts - The Sprlng Opera Showcase and the Opera Gala. In addition Clonter has an extensive EducatSon Programme, delivering workshops and children's shows. Further activi118s inGlude 'Mu51¢al Toa5 for the Elderly (to include a 'relaxed performance,), and providing performing opportunities for other music genres, with annual Jazz, Gospel and Folk events. giving platlorms for emerging musicians, under the wing of more establlshed artists, 2.2. Audltlon Opportunltl88 - Each year CFMT historlcally has audilloned 140-200 slng8rs at music colleges around the UK. as well as holding independent auditions for singers just starting their professional careers, who are recruited via online auditioning platforms (Auditions Oracle and Yap Tracker). in London. Post pandemic sing8rs approximately 230 sing8rs have been auditioned digitally in a first round, and approximately 60 5hortlisted, with 30 auditioning live in London for the 2024 summer Opera production, opera studios in May and November Gala. For those se18Cted, after these comprehensive auditions, the benefits of residential facilities, and a supporting staff of exceptional ¢alibre, are designed lo enable these emerging singers lo achieve maximum potential during the opera studios and thereafter. CFMT is an equal opportunities organisalion. offering free auditions. Travel expenses are paid for those travelling long distances removing obstacles of cost: Through the diversification of the auditioning prOS$, the neOrkIng potential of our organisation has increased immeasurably, mixing current students with those who have already entered the profession. 2.3. Perforniance Opportunltles 11 is estimated that Clonler offers approximately 30 Performing Opportunities per year. providing a platform for approximately 600 arlists, including parh'cipanls of visiting local performing arts organisations. 2.4. Arts Award Cenlre - Clonter is a registered Arts Award Centre enabling young people to gain progressive, nationally recognised Arts Award Qualifications. Arts Award is also an Approved Activity Provider offering recognised activities as part of the skills section of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
2.5. Subsldlsèd Venu• Hlre Clonter makes Its facililies available al Teduced costs to other aits organisations with similar aims, to nurture emerging talent and provide access to high quality live music. and other performing arts activities. 2.6. Collal)orations - Post Covid. CFMT identified the importance ol collaboration with olher local arts organlsations more than ever, and has sought and d6v61oped them where and whenever the opportunty has presented ilsetf. 2.7. Clonter as a Cultural Destination - Clonter strives to provide a rich and diverse programrne of musical events throughout the year including Folk, jazz. gosp81, and chamber music, as well as opera, aiming to make high quality live musical entertainment as accessible as possible to the widest audience demographic possible. as well as offering performance opportunities to em8rging artists from all genres of music. 2.8. Addltlonal Activllles - Clonler now offers perfomiing opportunities and an audience experience in the more intimate setting of the Ramsey Room Sessions, where artists, who do not command a cuent following large enough to fill the main auditorium. ar8 able to hone their craft. as well as offering th8 Clonter audience a more intimate "dub style. experience. 2.9. Masterclass Opera Studlo & Sprlng Opera Showcase - This annual event offers an opportunity for 5 singers to work with a director and music director on repertoire of their own choice as well as ensefflble ple$ chosen by Clonter. One Masterclass is open to the public and is followed by The Spnng Opera Showcase. This programme (no cost. no fee) offers participants the chance to work on material that they know already but wish lo explore in mor8 depth, as well as 'nJnnlng things around the block,. The maln advantage of this programme is that it offers both students and recent students the opportunity to work with students from other colleges. as well as on both duets and ensemble pieces, which is somelhing that is hard for colleges lo fit into their timetables. This programme continues to form a pivotal corner stone In the core aims and objectlV8s of the trusl - bridging a gap between conseryatoire and the profession. 2.10. The Muslcal Teas (Tea withs...) - Two teas are performed on consecutive days, both in March and then again in Decemb8T. This event offers an extra performing opportunity for emerging singer5. who have recently performed either in the workshop proh3ramme or opera productions at Clonter to experiment with, and broaden, their repertoire, at the same time as providing an event that is a¢ces5ible to marginalised groups- on Tuesdays in the fom of a 'relaxed perfomiance, for care home residents, and those been cared for al home, and on Wednesdays for those caring for their loved ones at home, or who prefer not to go out at night. 80th eveDts also provide an opportunty to sing along. 2.11. Betty Bannemian Award for Ffen¢h4ong - Wlnner recltal - Clonter has recently added the offer of a live recital, in addilion to ihe Prize money- which was endowed by Clonterfs Founder, Jeffery Lockett, In honour of hls molher, 88tty Bannemian. for Royal Northèm Coll8ge of Music students. 2.12. Clonter Falr-As part ofour commitment to providing accessible entertainment to our local community CFMT hold an annual Clont8r Fair in September providing live musical entertainment, complete with sports day, dog show and dassic car display. Thls event acts as a fundraising opportunity but is also accessible to people who would nol otherwise darken our door. It also provides an opportunity to platform local musicians to indude orchestras who olhep4vise would not meet the criteria to be given a platform at Clonter. The proceeds are always split between CFMT and another charity. 2.13. Nov•mbor Op•ra Gala - This popular event is the culmination of a week's opera sludio. is offered to the very best singers seen at audition or worked viith in recent years.
- Activitles in 2024 3.1. General Note - Recognising that flexibility and agility were key to surviving after the Arts Council Cultural recovery funding ended in 31 March 2021, CFMT has continued to diversify and adapt to the new cultural and economic climate post-covid whilst slill keepin9 its focus on providing opportunities to artists and teehnlcians. 2024 marked the 50th anniversary of Clonterf5 existence, and to that end it wished to present the most ambilious. diverse and accessible programme to date, inGluding the commissioning of a new play with music - The Butteffly House. and the introduction of an extra jazz event. creating a mini jazzfest, and Iwo Opera Galas (one matinee), with orchestra this year. 3.2. In 2024 Clonter presented 4 chamber Music concerts continuing on the work of the former Holmos Chapel Music Society. In addition Clonter has formed a collaboration with local arts organisation Goosfost, who run a festival every October, hiring the theatre for one of their events, which is publicised on Clonterfs webslle. and they reciprocale with our September events. 3.3. Clonter offéred 28 performing opportunities in 2024 {an Increase of 2 from 2023) through Clonter's own programm8, providing a platform for 25 emerging opera singers, 60 creatives and stag8 crew, plus approximately 300 additional young perfomiers through extemal hire - Sylk Dance Academy showcase, Stag• Coach shows, and the Great Brltb$h Muslc mp, all of whom are booked in to relum. 3.4. CFMT conlinued to provld8 its facilltles to the Sylk Danc• Academy showcase and the Great Brltlsh Music Camp in 2024. and 2 Stage Coach Shows. 3.5. Fr•• Tlckets - Clonter continued to offer free tickets lor 26 year olds and under, and Blue Llghl Card Holders {Emer9ency Services and NHS workers), Tlckels for Good, and those attendlng Food Banks. 3.6. Annual Opera Prlz• - 6 ernerging opera slngers. nomlnated by 6 leadlng conservatolres. performed before a panel of judges. Representalives from leading opera companies such as Opera North, Scottish Opera, Glyndeboume and The Royal Opera House are invited lo sit on the judges, panel as well as managing agents. Thls event invites the audience to vole. acting as one member of th8 panel. The priz8 money was £3,0000, offered either half in cash and the offer of filmed recital worth £1,500 . or In full, and ' the runner up prize was a filmed recital worth £1,500. 3.7. CFMT, having taken on the ft)rmer Holmes Chap•l Muslc Socloty's provlslon of Chamber Muslc. added 3 extra events to ils annual calendar this year. to include the Brodsky Quartel and a young ensemble from the Royal Northem College of Music- The A2alea wind Quintet, who performed in the Ramsey Room. 3.8. Tea wlth...events - In our 50th year, Clonter added an extra tea to offer both the usual 'Songs from the Showts, as well as The Minstrel's Songbook,. to offer a broader choice to those Ihat prefer daytime events. The Christmas Special was repeated by popular demand. 3.9. Plaf to Pop- Christine Bovill's 5 star show from the Edinburgh Fringe, and well reiVed shows at the Wiltons in London. made its debut at Clonter in 2024. This follows on from previous well attended Edith Piaf shows at Clonter in the past. 3.10. 2 Ramsey Room Sessions were planned for 2024- The Steve & Ben Somers Band (Ben Somers retuming from previous visits both as part of the Cross over Festival, and a previous Ramsey Room Session. and Christina Alden & Alex Patterson, who were spotted at the Bromyard Folk Festival.
3.11. Ma$ter¢la$s Opera Studlo & Sprlng Opera Showcase - This programme followed the usual fomiat, and the feedback from the partiapants confirmed the wntinuing use of this programme to both Current students and recent graduates, who welcome the opportunity to work intensely with others. on group staged work. 3.12. Betty Bannernian Award for French4ong Winnor recital This year's winner was Jessica Hopkins. In 2024 Clonter re¢ord8d th8 recital once again 8xl8nding the value of the prize by the provision of professionally recorded and edited up-towdate video material, which perfornwrs are under continual pressure lo provide. 3.13. Clonterbrook Recital- It seemed appropriate in Clonterfs 50th year to honour the mother of Clonterfs founder, with a performance of arguably her favourite piece of music - Ravel's Shéherazade, and so the French singer, Emilie Cavallo was engaged to come and perform this alongside a programme of French song in the Clonterbrook Music Room. 3.14. Jazz In June - In 2024 we dipped our toe In the festival water by staging kn nlghts of Jau. back lo back, repeating the popular formula of James Pearson and Friends on the Saturday night, but givin9 a platform to a contemporary jazz singer and song writer. Polly Gibbons, to perform her new album. 'As It is.. on the Friday night, promoting new writing, following her launch at Ronnie Scotts, and her performance alongside Ronnie Scott's Artlstic Director. Jam8s Pearson, in 2022 to rapiurous applause, thus paving the way for a recepts've audience for her own material. 3.15. Karlno Polwart - Multl-award wlnnlng folk sing8rlsongwrller came back to Clonler wlth a more intimate show in the Ramsey Room, accompanied by pianist Dave Mllllgan. 3.16. The Buttorfly Hous• - Clonter commlssioned a new play about the life of Giacomo Puccini, with music from 6 of his best loved operas- Tosca, Madam8 Butterfly. La 8ohèm8, La Rondine. Gianni Schicchi and Turandot - to bring newcomers as well as seasoned opera lovers on a rollercoaster ride through the iconic operatic repertoire of one of op&ra's most colourful composers, Giacomo Puccini. The Butterfly House - Revlewi quotes. photos and feedback - Appendlx 1 3.17. Clonter Falr. This year's chosen charity was Visyon in Congleton that offers SUPFQrt lo youn9 people struggling with mental health. 3.18. Jeremy Sassoon's Mojo - Celebratlng Muslclans of Jowlsh Orlgln from George Gorshwln to Barry Manilow. This local artist has been a regular in the Goosfest programmes over a number.of year, but this event offered the artist an opportunity to reach his largest audience yet. 3.19. Tim Wonnacott - Arias and Antiques - of Bargain Hunt fame came to generously give a lecture to aid Clonter in it's fundraising pursuit for its 50th Appeal. 3.20. Two Golden Anniversary Concerts with orchestra in November One was an evening perfomiance and the other a matinee show, accesslble for older audience members. Clonter'8 new Palron. Slr Mark Elder CH, CBE attended the evening show on 23 November and promoted Clonter's Match Fund Appeal. expressing very passionately how vital he felt the work that Clonter did was, and implored the audience to continue their SUPFY)rt. 3.21. Clonter ntInued to provide a platform for the London Advenlist Chorale wilh Ken Burton. to perfonn new works and arrangements for Ihe first time, as well as well-loved Gospel classics.
3.22. Clonter continued to provide a platform for the Breaking Tradition with a platfom for their Lock In 'Christma8 Party,. whose ethos of mixing different musical genres is both an inspiration and in lune with Clonter's ethos. This show well and truly ended Clonterfs 50th anniversary celebrations with a bang. 3.23. Education Outreach -"Catch up wlth Culture" projects In 2024 Clontér almed lo reach over 2000 children and teachers through a mlx of both Ilve and on4ine Musical Theatre Experiences. Our Theatre Arts Days were over subscribed very early on in the booking period and we decided to reduce the over all number of places for our hybrid interactive workshop and show- Puck's Adventure offering up to 100 places a day and invest in 60 children and teachers a day taking part in ihis real live theatrical and practical experience working with professional musicians, designers and technicians modal making, Costumè and lighting design, song-writing and stage craft delivering a transfomiative real lile manifestation of the children's creative thinking on a full size professional stage. A lotal of 1589 children and teachers benefitted from the higher value experience than we originally envisioned but the decision to increase the number of Theatre Arts Days proved to be most effective in delivering our core objectives with maximum impact and V will intend lo maintain this numb8r of Th8at Arts Days in the future and reintroduce our real live Musical Theatre Days which will caler for 150 children arKI teachers a day. "That was really great. You've baslcally don8 an entire lemi's worth of work In one hour. You've hit all the curriculum - English, muslc, topic, literacy, t8amwork. That was really helpful lo watch and I really enjoyed "we linked the play to our lopic of Space which helped to deepen their scientific understanding". 'The music workshop amazed both staff and children. They were so proud that they had created their own songs. The costume design workshop was a fim favourile of the chlldren's and they have their mannequins displayed in the classroom back at school" As in previous years, our expectations were fully met. Th8 children gained & lot of new skills and developed many characteristics. such as confidence and self- esteem" Education Evaluation - Appendix 2
Clonter Farm Music Trust Trustees. Report 4. Publlc Benoflt 5.560 audience members attended Clonter events, and 1.589 children and teachers booked in to take part in Clonter workshops and an additional 700 people attending Sylk dance academy, Great British Music camp. Goosfest and Stage Coach events. 172 Free tickets were taken up by people aged 26 or under. We donated 145 comps lo 'Tickets for Good., who offer free tickets for NHS, charity sector workers and cost- of-living payment recipients. Blue Light Badge Holders (emergency servic8s). NHS workers. refugees, and those attending food banks, were also offered free tickets. Many of those who took up this offer have signed up to our digital mailing list and now receive regular updates from Clonter. Digital reach.. We have managed to increase our Youtube channel views from 25.469 in 2022 to 38.790 in 2023, rising to 66,092 in 2024. 464 new subscribars to our Dot mailer list this year, increasing the reach to 4.272 people. Facebook page visits have grown by 720/0 compared wilh 400/• in 2023. Our presence on Inslagram has grown significantly in recent years, and 2024 has been our most active year yet-by far. Compared lo 2023. our posting frequency has increased by 680/0, and we have more than doubled our posts from 2022 (with a 108Y• growth). Similarly, our post reach has seen a significant increase of lo3° compared to last year. The most Impresslve grovAh has been in video views, which have surged by 288 /0. More th8n half of this boost can be attributed to publicity surrounding The 8utterfly House. With the assislance of our social media consultant, we SignifintlY boosted the Butterfiy House's Instagram presence, with 37 posts in July. Last year, when all Instagram cnntent was producedlposted in-hous6, we totalled only 9 posts Ihroughout the month of July. Clont8l5 YouTub8 channel is experiencing steady growth. with views in 2024 exGeeding those of 2023 by approximately 520/0. The views gamered in 2024 thus far make up approx, 280/0 of the all- time total (since the channel's launch in 2016>. Notably. five of the ten most-walch8d videos this year are excerpts from The Magic Flute. indicating a rising interest in and engagement with Clonter's annual opera productions. The notable newcomer stats for 2024.. The average percentage of first-time bookers across all four Chamber Muslc @ Clonter events in 2023 was 24°/o. In 2024, we hosted tt)ree Chamber Music events, which continue io be an effective lool in inlroductng new audience members to Clonter. The Brodsky Quartet in February attracted 310/0 newcomers, which is the highest PernIage we have seen across all Chamber Music events to dale. The Azalea Wlnd Qulntel in April attracted 23'h newcomers, nearly matching last year's average mentioned above. Although ticket sales for Toa Wlth... Th• Mlnstrel, Songbook in March were lower than usual (perhaps due to its focus on a different genre of rnu5ic). 23% of attendees were new to Clonter. This is a slight increase from last yearfs percentage of 22010. Ticket sales for Plaf to Pop in March were lower than anticipated. However, the event succeeded in bringin9 new audience members through Clonler's doors, with 350/0 ol attendees visiting for the first tlme.The Spring Opera Showcase in May welcomed 33010 newcomers. a slight increase from last year's 329A. This is the highest percentage of newcomers we have seen for thi5 evenl in recent years, with figures ranging from 13010 to 32% b8bNeen 2017 and 2023. This yearfs Jazz in June. fealuring Jam•s P•arson, attract8d 210/0 newcomers, falling below the 2017-2023 average of 28fi/o. However, for the first time, we expanded the evenl with an additional concert the previous night (featuring Polly Gibbons), which drew in 27Q/o newcomers. The Tea With.. event in June attracted 450/0 newcomers, a significant increase Compared to the 2017-2023 average of 289A for the March Tèa. Unlike Téa th... The Minstrel's Songbook, whith featured folk music, this event focused on Songs from the Shows. Th8 average percentage of newcomers across all Butterfly House perfomiances was 360k, matching that of The Magic Flute last year. This is Ihe second-highest newcomer rale for Clonter's summer productions since 2016, with only Albert Herring (2022) slightly surpassing it at 370/•.
The Publlc Ore$s Rehoarsal (traditionally an evening performance bul now a matinee) was particularly popular with first- time bookers. 540A of ticket holders were newcomers - the highest percentage we have seen for the Public Dress Rehearsal in a long time (compared to the 201F*2023 average of 410/0). Beeen 2017 and 2023, the Op•ra Gala has welcomed an average of 19.8Vo newcomers. This year, the evening performance on 23rd November attracted 190/0 newcomers, dosely aligning with the historical averag8. However. for the first time, Clonter hosted Iwo Opera Gala perfomiances this year, and together they achieved a combined newcomer attendance of 300/0. Box Office & Dlgital Marketing Inslghts - Appendix 3 5. Peopl• The 2024 season gave perfomiance opportunities to 616 p8rfomiers, including 242 emerging artists and creativ8 practitioners (designers. directors and musicians. audio visual designers) of which 30 were emerging opera singers. resulting from auditioning over 200 singers. We provided work and professional d8velopment opportunitl8S to 22 technicians {lighting, stage management, wardrobe maintenance and sound engineers) and have 35 volunteers and 32 regular service providers. 6. Flnanclal revl•w 6.1. Overvlew- The charity has surplus unrestricted funds for the year of £20,738 {2023.. -£35.421). Total income for the year was £659,069 (2023.. £532.373). showlng an increase of 24%. Total exp8nditur8 was £599,116 (2023: £565.667). 6.2. Re$•rv•s Poll¢y The Trust uts'lises Its unrestrlcted fund5 to provlde working capital. fund capltal replacement and to cover any deficit. The unrestricted resee$ stand at £122,019 (2023.. £101.2811. The trustees have set 8 reserves policy to build free fesetves to equate to three months of operating costs. 6.3. Investment Pollcy and Oblectlvés When Invesling surplus funds. the Trust seeks appropriale professional advice. At the present time surplus funds are placed on deposit. 6.4. Golng Concern - There are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue to operate for a twelve-month period from the signing of this report. Within the next e1ve months, there may be further remedial work carried out on the theatre roof. The trustees are aware of the extra cosls, and the issue is being addressed by the fvndraising manager and the trustees. 6.5. Phllanthroplc Support - We ext8fKI our deepest gratitude to our individual donors. whose generous financial support has been prlmarily Instrumental in enabling Clonter to continue nurturing emerging artists, allowing them to gain valuable training and perfomiing experience through Clonler's productions and other showcase opportunities. We remain committed lo keeping Funders and Clonter Friends and Patrons engaged with our work through regular updates, evaluations. newsletters and digital mailers. These efforts ensure Clonter remains in the forefront of people's minds demonstrating how effectively we align with the goals of our funding partners. Clonler continued to work with over 20 funding partners. During every Clonler perfomiance appeals were made from the stage, for new Friends. Palrons and charitable support, and additional income was raised from the sale of raffle tickets during supper intervals. 6.6. Tlcket pricing - We are pleased lo report an ongoing increase in ticket revenue compared to 2023. with The Butterfly House exceeding its budget projections. In line with our commitment to broadening accessibility, we continued th8 new pricing band at every event in 2024, rnaking tickets more affordable to
a wider audience. We thank everyone who attended our p8rformances and look forward to welcoming them back in ihe future." 6.7. Frlends and Patrons of Clonter - The support from Friends and Patrons continues to be vital in ensuring the financial stability of Clonter Farm Music Trust. We express our sincere thanks to those who renewed their memberships and offer a warm welcome to those new members who responded to our 50th Anniversary Appeal. We continued the new Friends and Patrons, evening fomiat, by popular demand, to entertain the Friends. Patrons and major donors of CFMT in the Ramsey Room and foyer area of the theatre instead of on the main stage. thus retaining a more intimate almosphere, and allowed the performers to directly express lo the Fri8nd$ how valuable their experienc8s at Clonter had been to them. 6.8. Charitable Grants Major appeals were made to Trusts for longer lerm 3 year funding commitrnents. While charitable grants and donation levels for 2023 were down on 2022 when we had extraordinary grants, one of which was not renewed and the other being reduced by 500A. Arts Council England and Cheshire East did not renew previous support for the second year running. The Truste8s of CFMT would like to thank all the trusts and foundations who increased their support for our 'Lel us be SO Appeal" was Cruclal in enabling Clonter to continue as a cultural destination, and benefitting emerging talent, regional audiences, artists. schools, and the elderly in our local community. 6.9. CoTporat• Sponsorshlp - We retained our maln corporate Opera sponsor for the opera and gained 8 new sponsor for our surtitle plasma screens. 10
- Clonter achleved Its alm to become th• first Iheatre In Che8hlre and 8taffordshlre to gain an Envlronmental Quality Mark Clonter proposed to continue to: Maintain Solar panels to generate electricity Estsblished and fflaintain a bee meadow Planted new hedges alongside the car park Continue a Plastic bottle free policy - We use Crag Spring Water from The Peak District. They supply in glass bottles, collect and reuse them. Contract ASH Waste - to collect and recycle as mud) as possible. Use compostable plastic and coffee cups Switch to low-energy bulbs throughout the theatre wherever possible. Prohibit the use of wet wipe5 in the theatre Insist that any external hirers use Enviro Skip. recyclabl8 or compostable Cept8&s, and reusable festival glasses (saved 1,200 cups from landfill after the 2019 Crossover Festival) • Insist that caterers use local suppliers Insist that caterers use environmentally friendly altemative to clingfilm Reduce Ihe us8 of plastic sle8v8s in our fillng • Reusè lever arch files, ring binders and fillng accessories Use sustainable photocopiers • Reuse printed matter as scrap paper • Ask companies not to send us unwanted prlnled matter or magazlnes by post Target mailers and print only Ihe number of leaflets needed for those mailers to reduce landfill Use email and social media rather than printed matter as much as possible Reuse banners and advertising boards with patches Buy hand wash in bulk and top up exisling disponsers Use non-plastlc tea bags and cornposting coffee beans in soll Use 1000/0 recycled toilet paper and p'roposing to remove paper towels from the theatre Use eco versions of cleaning materials Use local suppliers as much as posslble Recommend local businesses and tourism to Ouf Customers
Clonter Farm Music Trust Trustees. Report 7. Achlevement and Performance In acknowAedgement of its beneficial contribution to th8 perfoming arts, the Trust regularfy receives testimonia15 from artists, leachers. heads of the UK Conservatoires, reviews from crilics and funders endorsing the value of this work. 7.1. .1 leamed a lot and am grateful for the platform which was my first attempt at an opera which has slnce taken me all over the worfd" Slr Simon Keenlyslde (Clonter's Prèsident 7.2. "1 first sang for Clonter as Tatyana in Eugene Onegin as a student. I was in a vicious circle of not getting roles because I didn't have enough experience and Clonter took a chance on rne.11 was a fantastic learning experience, working with staff who wanted the best for the singers and the show. This year I sang for Clonler again, taking the risk of singln9 a role that I would not other4vise have had the couragé to sing In a different environment, Violetta in La traviats. Once again it was a sharp learning curve for m8, but again the Conductor and director were fantastic. I really believe that what Clonter do in nurturing and promoting young talent is unique. Next year I will make my debut in a lead role in a major house in the UK. Without my experience on stage there (Clonter), and the contact I made. I would not have taken the path I have done" Lee Blsset 2000 7.3. "1 am grateful to Clonter for allowing me to find my strengths in one of Donizetti's most challenglng roles Lucia dl Lammemioor which is a role l am sure I will perfom again and again. Clonter is an extremely friendly and fun atmosphere lo work in... providing much hospitality and support for the young singers they nurture during their time there. I would recommend il to any young singer with very high regard." Natslya Romaniw 2010 7.4. 'The secret of Clonterfs continuing success is that il is bom and maintained out of a genuine love for the art fomi, its origins, history and future. 11 is a very special place. The rewards are there for all to see, not only in the splendid end results in each production, but in the seeds planted in the fertile gfound of young artist's professional experience. The ROH recently asked me to cover a couple of smaller roles in the new Turnage commission. I've also got an audition with Ihem at the end of this month with a view to further p)ssible work. This all came after Elaine Padmore's attendance at the Britten Theatre perfonnance, and so l OV you a debt of gratitude.. Paul Carey Jones - La Cenorontola 2010 7.5. "There isn't any other company that I can think ofthat bridges the gap beikneen student and professlonal as well as Clonter. I was fortunate to work for three companies this summer all offering opportunities for young tslent or young artistsl Clonter's cast was the only one with a full student emerging company. The others say they offer opportunities to 'young artists, but most of them hav8 been working professionally for about 5-10 years...Clonter is doing something unique in our field. The level of guidance from the director was outstanding clearly an incredible director but above all. an educator. I've never leamed 50 much from doing a role - . standing on your own two feet to do the live performance- it vias like a professional course and perfomiance. Amazing what you can achieve in such a short time of rehearsals...Being able to perfonn a challenglng role in a safe space - I now have this under my belt and ready for a contract lo do it agaln. The pressure of doing a role like this straight away would be a scary thought- but at Clonter Ihey guided me through it with plenty of one to one coachings and support. The team at Clonter are incredibly generous, and provide a hard to top environment to work in... The maln difference is the working environment. Living on site allows us to really get deep into the process and allows us lo focus enlirely...I love that it's a northern company there aren't many! I love Ihe living on site...you can see how much care and time goes into creating this opportunity for us. It offers a professional opportunity for young singers.. 12
Alexandra Lowe 2019 (Alexandra gained a place on the Jette Parker Young Artist Programme at The Royal Opera House in 2020) 7.6. Yhe regular drip of (on-line) material from Clonter has exceeded many larger arts companies, kept in close touch with its audiencè and kept faith with its performers as well as given new work to the free-lance film making commljnity. That's all a massive achievement. l think Clonter has responded quicker Ihan most to the new circufflstances.. Wyn Davl•8 - Conductor 2020 7.7. "We appreciale all Clonter is dolng for the students here at the Royal Northem College of Music. To have opportunities available for our young singers, to bring them from College-level to professional engagement, is hugely important. It giv8S them confidencè, employment and encouragement. YOUT generosity and high standards of both care and training, over many years. are of immense value lo them. Lynn• Dawson - Head of Vocal Studies RNCM 7.8. "I've directed productions, for all the major UK conservatoires. Irish colleges and youth opera programmes BYO and for young artists, programmes in opera houses inlemationally. The on-site residential dimension of Clonler plays a key-role in quickly forming an ensemble atmosphere which yields huge dividends in.the final production. Clonter's setting and situation play an important role here. No stars. no special favourites, no pecking order. Remarkable. .It's a rarfrif not unique-ethos and one thal should be encouraged and supported. The small. integrated team made for a highly coheslve and effective line- management which, with excellent communication, contributes to an atmosphere of'can do" .First-class colleagues across the board. Practical, sensible, realistic and professional." Michael Mccaffery - Director 7.9. "We have worked wilh the organisation for more than five years and each year our partnership working grows stronger. During that lime, we are pleased to have particulady supported their education programme, which provides high quality experiences and pathways into arts careers for young people...This compris8S a series of arts and education workshops, resulting in the participants receivlng their Arts Award Oiscover. The programme not only provides unique arts experiences, but also helps young people leam new skills and gain qualifications. The organisation supports delivery ol our Cultural Framework which will be implemented from April 2017... Clonter Farm Music Trust is succeeding in providing Cheshire East residents with high quality arts programming and engagement." Amy Lewls, Cultural Economy Dovelopmont Manager Cultur•, Vlsltor Economy and Tatton Park, Cheshlre East CounGII. 7.10. 'Jeffery Lockett has done more for opara in Brltaln than many better known names.: An Indefatlgable and conscientious auditioner, he has started many a singerts career and Clonler remains the place to see tomorro$ top talent make its first appearance" Robert Thlckne$s• - Opera Now 7.11. "For those who lik8 to keep an ear on rising British operatic talent, periodlc Nllsits to Clonter Opera are essential. The list of those who have sung there since 1974 reads like a Who's Who of current casts in our (and Europe's) leading companies." Mlchael Kennedy -The Sunday Telegraph 13
7.12. "Clonter's track record bespeaks ils skill at talent spotting and the value of ils away-from-the-hothouse environment in building skills for future star perfomers... This yearfs La bohème is no exception.. Director Harry Fehr presents the story as Rodolfo, reluming to the attic in which great fomiative experiences of his youth took plao . .The set strikes you as soon as you sit down...Gra¢e Venning's set striking and evocative. At Clonter voices are the Ihlng and this year they struck gold." Robert Beale Manchost•r Theatre Awards 2018 7.13. "Clonter trawls far and wide for Its singers. The seven principals here came from slx countries and four continents. no doubt also testirrL)ny to the magnet that Britain still provides for aspiring musicians astonishing success rate of Clonter's protègés since 1974. Nevertheless, Harry Fehrfs production was proof of what can still be achieved on a tight budget. .The absence of Papageno's Pied Piper procession had an unexpected benefit.. we were able to focus on the byplay betsveen Musetta and Marcello without distraction. .Clive Timms brought his customary authority. to bear on the Clonter Sinfonia and it responded with discipline and enthusiasm. In the end, any budgetary privations faded before Fehr's successful evocation of nostalgia.. Standards were extremely high..., Martln Dreyer . Opera Magazlne 2018 7.14. "1 believe that the opportunity Clonter presents is nearly singular, at least in the UK as It offers emerging artists Ihe chance lo prepare princip81 roles withoul any caveats. l. .] Numerous professional development benefits emit from this simple structure,. including notable CIV experience, connections with working professionals in the industry, and photography and video that can be used on websites and presentations to agencies etc- not to mention th8 working exp8rlence from pre-production prep. rehearsals, and then show runnnlng. These are things that other summer opera programmes and even Conseryatoire Opera Schools do not offer all of. Because of all these details, perfoming in Abert Herring has been the most formative stage opportunity I've had since I regularly perfonned principal roles during my bachelor's degree, I think Clonter Is very much needed! Clonter is rare In that the produdion plannlng glves the wheel entirely over to the cast lo cary the show for a substantial run of performances. That is exceptionally rare for young professionals outside of schools" . Daniel Kringer- Albert in Albert Horrin9 2022 7.15."Whilst there ar8 other companies, thls Is one of the few summer cornpanles whlch cast all of the roles, including their biggest ones, from young singers right al the start of their career In a fully staged run of performances with an orchestra, and this is still rather unlque"_ Jack Robert8 - Maglc Flut• 2023 7.16. "The life and many loves of the composer told with his own music - For 50 years Clonter Opera. the song-on-the-farm project in rural Cheshire. has been encouraging would-be opera stars by giving them a chance lo perfom) in undemanding conditions under the guidance of experienced professionals...To celebrate the anniversary, they've done something very different from the more-or-less cofflplete opera productions that were often a highlighl of high summer in the leafy lanes not far from Jodrell Bank. It's a complete new piece of theatre with music, commissioned and created in-house, telling thé Ilfe of Puccini adomed with excerpts from his scores. For the Clonter audience it's a chance to hear young aspirants having a go at some of the most welll1lknown arias and duets from the Puccini playlist. which they do with vigour and skill. demonstrating the results of the vocal training avallable in some of our (and other ¢ounlries') top conseNaloires. For the perfonners the forniat offers not only that but also a rare opportunity lo become straight actors - a'skill they may well need in future as their real singing qualities are increasingly sought for in musical theatre to recreate the 20th century classics, as well as in the opera house. So Ihe mission to give a boost to people on the verge of their careers is as much in evidence as everf - Rob•rt Beal• . Arts Desk 24 July 2024 14
Do you think, Clontews summer opera production is providing an opportunfty that Is needed? Yes. most definitelyl . .because this year's production of The Butterfly House was a creation and we were asked to sing the most famous extracts from Pu¢cini's opera as well as doing some straight acting. It was an immense challenge and l am glad I benefited from Clonterfs environment to develop my skills. What did you find most réwardlng about thls •xpgrlenc•? Meeting incredibly talented people. The connections you make at Clonter are precious! What dld you flnd most difficult? Going back and forth from straight acting io singing in an operatic voice. But I think working with Clonter allowed me to develop myself so much in that regard and I know now that I can do itl Do you think we could improve? Not from my perfomier's point of view. I have nev8r been so well taken care of in a production, I have to say it! It is a safe environment whère we feel we can express ourselves. So much so than I felt I wanted to help rf I could {1 did a bil of social media for example) The people running it...kind, understanding, helpful. The size of the Iheatre, not too big nor too small.. The acoustic is fantastic! . Emllle Cavallo - Pucclnl's mother and h1* wlfe Elvlra. Singlng roles of 'Tos¢a, Cio clo san and Musetta In The Butterfly House 2024 Havlng never worked in opera before, Clonter's summer opera production provided me with the opportunity to gain experience in Opera in a supportive environment with large amounts of production elements as part of the show. Any production providing opportunities for newer and more experienced artists alike is deflnitely still needed. I think the supportiv8 atmosphere and the ability lo stay onsit8 are really helpful to encourage those who may have to travel further to go for the job. It help5 provide a stability which is harder to find if you are in an emerging stage of your professional career. What did you find most rewarding about thls oxperlenc•? The vthole experien was greatly rewarding. especially working on a newly- wntten produclion that was really accessible to audlence members who weren't necessarily well versed In Opera. The ability to also be part of filming that was happening for Clonterfs education programme made it feel like I could make a difference in encouraging people to gel involved in Opeia and Theatre. particularty to encourage interest in backstage lobs. - Phll Clack - Deputy Stage Manager, The Butterfly House 2024 While other memories fade, people with dementia continue to enjoy music and singing especially listening to and singing familiar songs. They also tend to develop a sweet tooth. Their carers often leel isolated and stressed and need opportunities to socialise and relax. Clonler Opera's afternoon tea with songs delivers on all three fronts. The performers are first class, the slaff invariably courteous and considerate and the tea dellcious. The event is hugely beneftclal for our mental health and we look forward lo the next one. Thank you Clonter for your wonderful contribution to the enjoymenl and well-being of local people with physical and mental disabilities and their carers. - Attend•• of Afternoon Tea for the Elderly Further Foodback 2024 - See Appendlx 1 & 3 8. Future Plans for 2025. 8.1. Clonter Farm Music Trust remains committed to identifying and developing some of the mosl talented young opera singers in the UK through ils Emerging Artist programme which includes the Clonter Opera Prlzo comytltlon to be held in February and a filmed recital offered lo the winner and runner up. May Masterclasses and Showcase concert as well as a November studlo and opera gala perfornianceg will be performed on the Clonter stage. 15
8.2. Tosea -11 was felt that in order to retain the attentlon of the new audience gained from The Butterfly House. that the next summer opera production should be one of the operas that was featured in The Buttertly House. All the other operas have been performed at Clonter before. but not Tosca. With the advanced technical know-how within the Clonter t8am. the confidence of one of the directors from the Butterfly House on how this iconic opera could be staged. and feelir)g confident that there are emerging artists. who have crossed our bough. could take on two of the most demanding principle roles from the Butterfiy House, we plan to take on this challenge to start the next half century in our history. 8.3. Plaf - Following Christlne Bovill's 5 star show from the Edinburgh Fringe, and her well received show at Clonter in 2023, Ms Bovill is booked to return in 2025 with her pure Piaf show. This follows on from previous well attended Edith Piaf shows at Clonter in the past. 8.4. Betty Bannernian Award for French•song - Winner recital - The winner of this award is planned to conlinue this newly established tradition of giving a live recital. as per pre-covid. in addition lo the Prize money. 8.S. Jazz In Jun• - In 2025 we will Telum to the usual tried and tested formula of James Pearson and Friends. as well as giving a plafform for a local jazz musician. 8.6. Clonter Falr- This event acts as a fundraislng opportunity but also is accessible to people who would not otherwise darken our door. It also provides an opportunity to platlorm local musicians lo include orchestras who otherwise would not be 8.7. Jeremy Sassoon's Mojo - Celebrating Musicians of Jewish Origin from George Gershwin to Barry Manilow. This local artist has been a regular in the Goosfest programmes over a number of year, but this evenl oflers the artist an opportunity to reach his largest audience yet. 8.8. Tea wlth. .•vents - 2 teas will tske place, with the usual Tuesday relaxed performance. 8.9. Clont8r plans to continue lo provlde a platform for the London Adv•ntlst Choral• with Ken Burton'8 new arrangements and compositions. 8.10. Glulla Contaldo - vtho came to intemational attention when she slepped in for Elisso Virsaladze to play Schumann's ' piano Concerto with the BBC Philarmonic at the Bridgewaler Hall, wlll come to perform a selection of pieces from her album Melopes. This is a passion projed for Giulia. and Iherefore giving a platform for this emerging pianist to perfomi something she may otherwise not get to perform live feels in line with Clonter's ethos. Giulia came to take up the free recording opportunity during Covid, and retumed to record a full digltal rA)n¢ert as part of our Covld 'Keeplng You Entertained, online programme. 8.11. Black Is The Color Of My Voice - Clonler has presentsd plays from time to time. and this award winning show CL)mbines ils jazz tradition with the celebration of the life of one of its greats, which is deemed something that would compliment the annual jazz event. and therefore appeal lo the Clonter jazz audience. 8.12. Clonter will continue to provide its faulities at subsidised charitable rates for The Great Britlsh Music Camp? Sylk Dance Academy. Stage Coa¢h, and a new enquirer Jayne Guest Produ¢llons {Panto). 16
8.13. Free Tlcket$ Clonter will Continue to offer free tickets to 26 year olds and under, and Blue Light Card Holders {Emergency servIs and NHS workers) and those attending Food Banks, as well as Tickets for Good. 9. Education Outreach 9.1 Clont8r's 2025 programm8 will provlde YrkshopS and talent development opportunltles for 2,000 children and teachers from more than 30 primary and secDndary schools across Cheshire East, Merseyside, and Greater Manchester - targeling schools where over 250/0 of pupils are eligible for Pupil Premium. We 11 provide immersive, curriculum-linked experiences free of charge. wilh subsidised transport to and from our rural venue. As an accredited Arts Award Centre, we support students in achieving formal recognition of their progress. Clonter will continue to provide free access to our flagship educational experiences". Musical Theatre Days (ages 7+>, Theatre Arts Days (ages 8+). Performance Projects (ages 9+). Page to Stage and Film (ages 12+). Each experience will offer a rich, creative immersion; combining liva performance with hands-on workshops in set deslgn, lighting, music-making. costume design and theatre production. Pupils also gain Arts Award certificates, a natsonally recognised qualification that celebrates creative development and encourages progression within the arts. We will be developing a Page to Stage and Film project with Ruskin Community High School (who have a 42Q/o of children eh'gible for free school meal or SEN support - Pupil Premium). The programme integrates expresslve arts (muslc and dance) theatre-making, fosterlng selfwconfidenc8. communication skills. and artistic literacy. Our impact will be demonstrated in both quants'tative outcomes and qualitative feedback. Teachers consistently report heightened engag8menl, improved self-belief, and transformatlve experlences for students, including those with SEN or behavioural Challenges. 10. Pornn01 Dovolopm•nt, Flnanclal Management and Summary 10.1. Clonter aims to continue to work with Truslees wilh experienc8 in business and technology transfomiation to help build a business model to increase the charities agility and ability to react to the ever<hanglng events. The Trustees Continue to plan to hold monthly flnance meetings to monitor all spending judiciously and to exercise due diligence. In addition senior management will work to optimise the use of our CRM system to improve the development and efficiency of managing current supporters as well as monitoring olher and fvndraising initiatives. A new Fundraising Direclorlconsultanl wrth experien of working with Trusts and Foundations will be sought to work with the Fundraising Manager to further maximise the fundraising potential of our Spektrix Customer and fundraising managemenl system. 17
10.2. In Summary- Clonter plans to continue to adapt to the changing needs of its audiences and emerging artists, building on the diverse programming that emerged out of necessity during the Pandemic, in the fomi of the recorded recitals. making this facility available to others both emergin9 and emerged; building relationships with other local cultural and musical educational organisations, continuing lo play its part in the provision of education and support for the elderly. maximise the use and hire of the theatre, capitalising on Clonter's USP, a theatre in a rural setting, which therefore attracts those that are looking for somewhere a bit different for their special days, as well as providing a venue for likeminded organisations or initialivas requiring a proscenium Iheatr8. With t)oth rehearsal and dining facilities,. continue to make the theatre and its grounds available and accessible to the local community, as an extension of the county's other cullural amenities. Clonter believes its successful response lo the Covid Pandemic has proved that it has the ability to adapt and evolve under extreme conditions from the ground up, proving its resilienc8 and viabillty for the future. 11. Structure. Governance and Management 11.1 Govarnlng Document - The charity Is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitules a limited company, limited by guarantee. as defined by the Companies Act 2006. It is a règistered charity with the Charity Commission. 11.2. Recrultment and Appolntment of Trustees - Th8 Directors, who are the Trustees, are appointed by the members in general meeting and are collectively known as the Board. At each AGM, one third ol the Directors retire by rotation, being the longest in office and are eligible for re-election. The Board ha5 the power to COpt trustees, but such people only hold office until the next AGM, do not count in determining those retiring by rotation. but are eligible for election. Thè TTUStees who seNed during the year and up to the dale of approving this report are listed on page 1. 11.3. Inductlon and Tralning ol Trustees - Trustees are recruited for their commrtment and the skill and knowledge they can bring to the organisation. All trustees r8ceive inductton information and training as appropriate to their needs and there is an opportunity to access ongolng training lor personal development. 11.4. Organlsational Structure - The Board. which must not be less than three members and nol rrKJre than eight, administers the Charity and meets as necessary. bul must meet at least 4 limes a year. The day-to-day operations of the Charity are the responsibility of the lolnt Chef Executlves, to whorn the Trustees delegate authority for operational matters including finance, employment and dèvelopment, within overall strategy agreed by the Board, 18
Clonter Farm Music Trust Trustees. Report Related Partles Trustees are required to complete a form on appointrnenl which is updated annually, registering their interesl, induding the membership of olher voluntary organisations, The Board procedures ensure that Trustees do not participate in decisions in which they havè an interest given in the notes lo the financial statements. Membors of tho Company The Directors have Ihe pow8r to admit any person or organisation to membership and may establish different classes of membership and prescribe their respective privileges and duties. A member may be removed from membership by Ihe resolution of the Trustees on the ground that in their reasonable opinion the memberfs continued membership is harmful to the Charity (bul only after nolifylng the member in writing and considering any written representation from the member f8ceived wilhin 14 days of Ihe notice). 291912025 The annual report was approved by the truslees ofthe charity on .................... and signed on Its behalf by.. N Mathias Trustee 19
Clonter Farm Music Trust Independent Examlnerfs Report to the trustees of Clonter Farm Muslc Trust (Ihe Company,) I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of th8 Company for the year ended 31 December 2024. R•sponslbllltlog and Bas18 of Roport As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 {'the 2006 Act.). Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be auditèd under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination. I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of th8 Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act,). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commisslon under section 14515)(b) of the 2011 Act. An independent examination does not involve gathering all the evidence that would be required in an audit . and consequently does not cover all the matters that an auditor considers in giving their opinion on the accounts. The planning and conduct ol an audit goes beyond th8 limited assurance that an independenl examination can provide. Consequently l express no opinion as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fairf view and my report is liffliled to those specific matters set out in the independent examiner's statement. Indepondent Examln•rfs Statem•nt Since the Company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body lisled in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confimi that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of Brlght Partnership Llmi18d, whlch is one of the Ilsted bodies. . I have completed my examination. I confimi thal no matters have come to my attention in connectlon with the examination glving me cause to believe.. 1. accounting records were not kept in respect of Clonter Farm Music Trust as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act. or 2. the accounts do not accord with those records,. or 3. the arxounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that th8 accounts give a 'lrue and fair viebrf whlch is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or 4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities {applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in Ihe UK and Republic of ITeland {FRS 102)]. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examinalion to which attenb'on should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 20
Clonter Farm Muslc Trust Independent Examiner's Report to the trustees of Clonter Farm Music Trust {'the Company.) Mr Michael Senior For and on behalf of Bright Partnershlp limited Chartered Accountants Suite 1 Armcon Business Park London Road South Poynton Stockport England SK12 1LQ Date.. ..X...fl..,.... 21
Clonter Fann Music Trust Statement of Flnanclal Activltles for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 Unrestrlcted funds Restrictsd funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Not• Income and Endovmients from: Donations and legacies Charitable activities Other trading activities Investment income 219,325 277.105 10,642 219,325 427,588 10,642 200.932 317,704 12,720 150,483 Total income 150 483 659 069 532,373 Expenditure on: Charitable activilie5 599116 565 667 Total expendilure 487.848 111,268 Net incomel{expendilure) Net movement in funds 20,738 39,215 59,953 {33,294) RKon¢lllatlon ol funds Total fvnds brought forward 101281 116281 149 575 Total fvnds carried forward 122,019 54,215 116281 All of the charity's'activities derive from conlinuing operations during the above trNo periods. The funds breakdown for 2023 is shown in note 11. 22
Clonter Farm Muslc Trust (Registration number.. 04056093) Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Note Flxed a8$ets Tangible assets Curront assets Debtors Cash at bank and.in hand 4,337 1.528 42.869 151,230 194,099 43,080 134,187 177.267 Credltor8: Amounts falllng due wlthln one year Net current assets 171897 114753 Net assets 116281 Funds of the charlty: Restricted Income fund• Reslricted funds 54.215 15,000 Unrestrlctod Income funds Unrestricted funds 122019 101281 Total funds 176.234 116281 23
Clonter Farm Music Trust (Registratlon number: 04056093) Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024 For the financial year ending 31 December 2024 the charity was ents'tled to exemption from audit under se¢lion 477 of the Companbes Act 2006 relating to small companies. Truslee s. responsibilities: The members have not required the charty to obtain an audit of ils accounts for the year in question In accordance wth section 476,. and The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of th8 Act with respect to accounting records and the preparalion of accounts. The financlal statements on pages 22 to 33 were approved by the trustees, and authorlsed for issue on 291.912Q2.5..... and signed on their behalf by: N Mathias Truslee 24
Clonter Farm Music Trust Statement of Cash Flows for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 2024 2023 Note Cash flows from operating activities Net cash incomel(expendltur8) 59,953 (33.294) Adjustments to cash flows from non<ash Items Depreciation Investment income 1.499 1,621 59,938 132.690) Worklng capltal adJuslm•nts Decrease in debtors (Decreaseyincrease in Creditors Decrease In deferred income 211 (6,544) 18,534 15,647 21 Net cash fl04vs from operating activities Cash Ilowg from Inv•8tlng a¢tivili•s Interest recelvable and simllar Income Purchase of tangible fixed assets Net cash flow5 from investing activities Cash flows from financlng a'ctivities Repayment of loans and borrowings 1.514 1,017 749 (2,794) 268 Net increase in cash and cash equivalenls Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 17,043 1.738 132449 151.230 134,187 All of thè cash flows are derlved from continuing operations during the abov8 bNo perlods. 25
Clonter Farm Music Trust Notes to the Financial Ststements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 1. Accounting Policies Basls of Preparing the Financial Ststements The financial statements of th8 charilable company, which is a public benefit 8nlity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with th8 Charities SORP {FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charilies: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in aC)rdanCe with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019),, Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard appllcable In the UK and Republic of Ireland, and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. Prlnclple Activlty Clonler Fami Music Trust is an Opera Theatre which supports activities for performing arts. Income and Endowments All income is recognised once the charity has enlitlemenl to the incx>me, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of the income receivable can be measured reliably. Income from donations and grants. induding capitsl grants and donations. and any related gift aid, is included in incoming resources when these are receivable, except when they relate lo futu accounting periods or when the donor Igranlors impose pre-conditions that have not been met, In these cases the income is deferred until the future period andlor the conditions have been met. Where conditlons are imposed which reslrlct the use of income to a specific purpose then it is included in incoming resources under reslrict funds when it is due. Expendlture Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity lo that expenditure, It is probable Ihal a transfer of economic benefils will be required in settlement and the arnount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Vlhere costs cannot b8 directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activitie5 on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Remaining rastricted pertorniance funds have been apportioned behyeen production artists costs and production other direct costs based on the total expenditure put together. Gov•rnance Cmts These include the costs attributable to the charity's ¢omplian¢e with constitutional and statutory requirements. induding audit. strategic management and trustees meetings and reimbursed expenses. 26
Clonter Farm Muslc Trust Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 Taxallon The Charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities. Th6 charity is reglslered for VAT and Is only able to recover Some of the inpul lax It Is charged. Costs are stated net of VAT were It Is charged and irrecoverable VAT is included in expenditure under chantable activities. Tanglble Flxed Assets Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life. Depre¢l•tlon and Amortl8allon Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost or valuation, less any estimated residual value, over their expected useful economic life as follows: Asset Class Fixture and fittlng Depreclatlon method and rate 200/0 on cost and 100/• on cost 50Yo on cost, 330/0 on cost and 20°/0 on cost Computer equipment Fund Structure Unrestrided income funds are general funds that are available for use at the trustees discretion in furtherance of the objectives of the charity. Restrlcted income fijnds are those donated for use In a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area or purpose. 27
Clonter Farm Muslc Trust Notes to.the Flnanclal Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 2. Income from Other Trading Actlvltles Total 2023 Total 2023 Fundraising Events Sponsorships 3.192 6.180 540 3. Investment Income Total 2024 Total 2023 Interest received 4. Analysls of governance and support costs Support Costs Total 2024 Total 2023 Theatre and workshop Other activities 45.654 60.519 73.470 92,386 Other actlvities includes Governance costs of £31,80512023- £23,227). Support costs a those funclions which assist work of the charity either by supporting the delivery of the charitable aclivities or by supporting the generalion of funds. They indude back office functions, freelance staff costs and professlonal fees. 28
Clonter Farm Music Trust Notes to the Flnanclal Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 S. Net Incomlngloutgolng re8ource8 Net incomingl(outgoing} resources for thè year indude: 2024 DeplatIOn of Flxed Assets 6. TNsteos Remunerallon and Expen$e• No twstees, nor any persons connected with them. have received any remunerati from the charity during the year. No trustees have received any reimbursed expenses or any other benefits from the charity during the year. 7. Tanglble Flxed As$•ts Long16asehold Fumlturo and Improvement fitting Comput•r equipment Total Cost At 1 January 2024 Additions 201.163 42.247 24.049 267,459 At 31 De¢emb8r 2024 201.163 271767 Depreclatlon At 1 January 2024 Charge for Ihe year 201.163 42.247 646 22,521 853 265,931 At 31 December 2024 201163 267 430 Not book valu• At 31 December 2024 3.662 675 4.337 At 31 December 2023 1,528 1,528 29
Clonter Farm Music Trust Notes to the Financlal Ststements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 8. Debtors 2024 2023 Other debtors 42.869 43.080 9. Credltors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year 2024 2023 Tfade creditors Other loans Other taxation and soclal securlty VAT other creditors Accruals Deferred income 17,161 3,178 1.370 {4,146) 1,233 3,406 9.896 35.000 9.477 (7671 3,496 3.466 1.946 30
Clonter Farm Muslc Trust Notes to the Flnanclal Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 10. Loang An analysis of the'maturity of loans is given below 2024 2023 Amounts falling due withln one year on demand: Other loans 3,178 Assets held under flnance leases Thè lenders have agreed that their rights to repaymént should be subordinated to thosé of any other creditor of the charity. The monies have been deposited in a separate interest bearing account and may be drawn down to support the cash flow needs of the charity as required. During the year repayments of £31,8221 were made resulting in a loan balance carried forward of £3.178 In the event that all the loan is repald, Interest wlll be payable to the lender computed on the followlng basls: (a) Any interest eamed by the charity in the separate interest-bearing account shall be dua. {b) Interest at 20/0 per annum on any balance transferred from the separate interest-bearing account until it is retumed, or until th8 whole of the loan is repald. whichever is the later date. In the event thal the whole loan is not r8pald to 8ilh8r lender, any interest entitlement will be waived. 31
Clonter Faym Music Trust Notes to the Flnanclal Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 11. Funds Balance at 1 January 2024 Incoming resources. Resources Balance at 31 exnded D•camber 2024 Unrestricted funds G•noral General fund 101,281 508,586 (487.848) 122,019 R•8trlcted fund• Workshops Performances 80,983 (64.288) 16,715 15,000 111268 Total funds 116.281 659,069 599,116 176.234 Balance at 1 January 2023 Incomlng rosources Re8our¢e• Balance at 31 expended D•¢•mbèr 2023 Unrestrlct•d funds General General fund 136,702 445,373 (480,794) 101.281 R•8trl¢ted lunds Workshops Performances 40,500 (29,500) 11,000 Total funds 149,575 532 373 116281 32
Clonter Farm Muslc Trust Notes to the Flnancial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 12. Related party dl8clo8ure¥ Chief Executlves: Additionally. the company has entered into transactions with Lockett Partners of which A Hannan and I Lockett are partners arKI sisters of S Famier. l Lockett is now an employee as Joint Chief Executive and General Manager. One close family member of S Farmer has made loans available to the charlty, as set out in the loan note £3.178 was outstanding at the year end. S Farmer has no financial interest in any of the above transadions and does not play any part in Board decisions affecting her family members and the Charity. The trustees beliove that all of these arrangements are in the best interest of the charity and allow it to operate effectively. Donations: As far as the trustees are able to determine the aggregate value of unrestricted donations to the charity made by trustees and other related parties was £NIL (2023 NIL). 13. Restrlct•d Fund The charity received restricted funds of £69.500 during the year (2023 £46,500) from Trusts and grants for the charitable activities. . They also received restricted funds of £84,000 during the year (2023 £40,500) from Trusts and grants for the educational workshops 33