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Welcoming Kent Music’s new Chief Executive

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Gerry Sterling as our new Chief Executive.

Gerry will take up the post from April 22nd 2025, succeeding Peter Bolton, who has led us for the past 16 years.

Gerry steps into the role with over 25 years’ experience as a musician, instrumental and classroom music teacher, and music education leader.

He is currently Head of Music at Hartsdown Academy in Margate and has previously served as Chief Executive of Bromley Youth Music Trust and Head of Lambeth Music Service.

During his time in Lambeth, Gerry led the pioneering In Harmony programme, which used music to transform the lives of children from disadvantaged backgrounds. This nationally recognised initiative provided young people with high-quality, immersive music-making, fostering creativity, achievement, and inclusion—values that sit at the heart of our work.

With a deep understanding of both classroom and instrumental teaching, Gerry is well placed to support key areas of our work including high-quality music tuition and school support. His experience with Music Hubs means he understands the challenges and opportunities ahead, while his passion for making music accessible will help drive our work in reaching young people who might not otherwise have the chance to take part.

I am thrilled to be joining the team at Kent Music, leading an inspiring charity that provides creative, diverse, and inclusive musical opportunities for young people and the wider community. Music has the power to transform lives, and I am committed to ensuring that ALL young people in Kent and Medway have the opportunity to experience this. I look forward to working with students, the Kent Music Team, music hub partners and funders to realise this vision.

Gerry Sterling

I am delighted that we have appointed Gerald as our new Chief Executive. He comes with considerable experience across many aspects of music education that will equip him to lead us through our next phase. We look forward to him joining us after Easter.

Chair of the Kent Music Board of Trustees, Geoff Miles OBE MA DL

Gerry takes over at an exciting time for us. As we complete our first year as Hub Lead Organisation for the Kent & Medway Music Hub, we are looking ahead to the next chapter—continuing to ensure that learners of all ages, especially children and young people, have access to high-quality music education.

With Gerry’s experience and leadership, we are set to build on our work, grow new opportunities, and champion the power of music across the region.

We look forward to welcoming their new Chief Executive and working together to make a lasting impact. Welcome, Gerry!

Want to know more?

For press and media enquiries, please contact:

Grace Irvine, Communications Manager
girvine@kent-music.co.uk

Download our press release