74% of music organisations say music education is the most important issue facing the sector

22 July 2010

A survey by the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) has revealed that 74% of ISM corporate members rate music education as the most important issue facing the whole of the music sector.

Deborah Annetts, Chief Executive of the ISM said: ‘We know that 91% of adults in Britain believe all children should have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument at school, and over three-quarters of the public think the cost of central government funding for music lessons in England is reasonable.

‘These results now demonstrate just how critical music education is to the entire music sector.’

The ISM is calling on the government to ensure music education continues to be sustainably funded, especially during these difficult times. Sustainable funding is vital to ensure music continues to play an important part of the British economy, with the creative sector currently generating 10% of the UK’s GDP. It is also estimated that for every £1 of public investment in the arts, £2 is generated.

As one respondent said: ‘Fewer trained musicians equals fewer music teachers and fewer performers.’

Sue Sturrock, Director of Communications at the Royal College of Music, one of the ISM’s corporate members said:

‘Being an ISM corporate member is essential for any music organisation, especially during these challenging times. The ISM supports the interests of everyone engaged in the music profession through its lobbying and campaigns work, and corporate membership is also a great way of keeping informed about what is going on in the music world.’

ENDS

Notes for Editors

1. The Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) was set up in 1882 and is the professional body for musicians. The Society has over 5,000 individual members and approximately 100 corporate members who come from across the music world including Classic FM, Sing Up, Trinity Guildhall, ABRSM, the Association of British Orchestras, the Federation of Music Services and Music for Youth. The ISM is a key advocate in promoting the importance of music and defends the rights of musicians through a range of services including high quality legal advice, campaigns and practical support.

Contact

Elizabeth Fulton, Press Officer, t: 020 7079 1201, e: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Website: http://www.ism.org

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