Monday 7 February 2011
The ISM has welcomed the Government’s Response to the Henley Review of Music Education, which acknowledges music as ‘an enriching and valuable academic subject’ and commits to funding music services in the coming year.
Michael Gove is a passionate advocate of music education and has demonstrated this commitment saying ‘…it is simply unfair that the joy of musical discovery should be the preserve of those whose parents can afford it.’
Deborah Annetts, Chief Executive of the Incorporated Society of Musicians said:
‘Darren Henley’s Review is an important and authoritative document which makes a strong case for the importance of music education to our children. Music education in the UK sets the standard for the rest of the world and has been shown to improve attainment in key areas such as literacy, numeracy and social skills.
‘The Review makes the key finding that “the provision of Music Education should remain a statutory requirement as part of the National Curriculum,” which we heartily endorse. We also call on the government to act on the Review’s recommendation that music should be included in the English Baccalaureate, something the government has so far failed to do, thereby threatening the place of music in secondary schools.’
The ISM welcomes the government’s continued funding of £82.5 million for music services in 2011-12 to tackle the ‘musical divide’ which Michael Gove has identified.
Deborah Annetts added:
‘We're impressed by government's commitment to music education and the news that the Music Grant will not be cut at all in the next year. Michael Gove has issued a challenge to local authorities to match the Government’s commitment and continue to fund music education.’
The ISM represents more than 5,500 musicians and music teachers in the UK, including many who work in schools and music services, and provides legal advice, continuing professional development opportunities and careers advice for music professionals.
A link to the Henley Review and the Government's Response can be found here.
Join the debate and share your thoughts about the Henley review and government response on our Facebook discussion board here.
Downloads
Add your comment
Your email address will not be published.
Your comments
I have worked with children who have learning & social difficulties for over 30 years & have proved time and again how music can change their lives. It aids concentration, reading, maths, self discipline, social communication and gives many a purpose in life.
If music is removed from the school curriculum many other subjects may suffer. Yes, it may cost more than basic subjects because many parents cannot afford instruments, music, and exams, but would anybody consider having to pay for basic learning materials in schools?
23 February 2011 Posted by Mrs pat Coggin from Thanet, Kent