With varying needs across several regions, schools, and age groups, music education in the United Kingdom faces significant challenges.
Despite the British music business contributing a record £7.600,000,000.00 to last years economy, disparities still exist in terms of access to music education with a 2019 BPI survey revealing that one in every four schools serving disadvantaged communities offer no music lessons whatsoever.
In response to some of these inequalities, Ed Sheeran has launched the Ed Sheeran Foundation, a UK-wide initiative focused on providing inclusive, high-quality music education. Underscoring the urgent need for systemic change, upon its inception the foundation has thus far supported eighteen grassroots music education organizations and state school music departments across Great Britain, the support for which will directly impact 12,000 children and young people by improving access to instruments, creating performance opportunities, and opening pathways into the music industry.
In addition to providing hands-on support, the foundation advocates for greater recognition of music’s transformative power in young people’s lives and the essential role of music teachers. A recent report by the Cultural Learning Alliance (source: CLA Annual Report) highlighted a 56% decline in music teacher recruitment since 2011,
Marking the launch of the foundation, Sheeran visited young people, teachers, and youth workers in Cardiff, Coventry, Edinburgh and Belfast, and he stated:
“Music education has shaped who I am. I’ve always enjoyed playing music, and it’s led to some of the best moments of my life” One of the grassroots organisations visited was Sound Progression in Cardiff. With the foundation’s support, the organisation offers weekend music lessons and mentoring to young people.
Founder, DJ, and music producer, Paul Lyons, added:
“Our young people come from diverse backgrounds across Cardiff and enjoy creating music in various genres from Afrobeats to Indie. Our weekend workshops serve as safe, inclusive spaces that unite communities—but without additional investment, we risk losing this and the incredible talent they nurture.” In Coventry, the foundation is partnering with Coventry Alternative Provision (AP) Academy and Coventry Music on studio space. AP academies are for young people without a school place through exclusion or in need of a mainstream education.
Glenn Mellor, head teacher, highlighted the impact, saying:
“Music is so important for our young people. Having this studio reaches them in a way that will inspire them to believe they can go further with their ambitions and future careers.”
The foundation’s work will continue throughout the year.”
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Author: Saul Goode
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