From Homeless to Music Scholar: Chloe’s Remarkable Journey

When Chloe Preston-Greaves first picked up the cello at 10 years old, she discovered something powerful: music offered freedom. Unlike the certainty of classroom answers, it gave her space to express herself.

But her early progress — including a distinction in Grade 1 — was cut short when her secondary school lacked string instruments and her family could not afford lessons. For a time, the music stopped.

At 14, a surprise second-hand cello from her parents reignited her passion. Yet life soon became even more challenging. In 2022, Chloe and her family were made homeless following a no-fault eviction. Over nearly two years, they moved between relatives’ homes, hotels and temporary flats. Education became secondary to simply staying warm and safe.

During that time, music became her refuge. Playing in hotel stairwells, she rediscovered the cello as a way to process anger, grief and hope. Joining the Leicestershire Schools Symphony Orchestra restored a sense of belonging — and introduced her to the Harry Humber Scholarship at Loughborough High School, part of the Loughborough Schools Foundation.

Despite not meeting the suggested Grade 7 standard, Chloe applied. Weeks later, an email changed everything: she had been awarded The Worshipful Company of Plaisterers’ Harry Humber Sixth Form Music Scholarship, covering up to 100 per cent of fees.

Starting at Loughborough High transformed her world. Surrounded by dedicated teachers, outstanding facilities and like-minded musicians, she found not only opportunity but belief — in her talent and in herself.

Now considering a future in music education, Chloe hopes to help other young people discover the confidence and safety she found through music.

Her message to others? Try anyway. One small decision — sending an email, picking up an instrument again — can change everything.