A NEW musical education programme for youngsters will launch this autumn, thanks to a £1.7m grant from the government.
As part of a new national programme, Berkshire Music Trust has been appointed by Arts Council England to lead the Berkshire Music Hub from September. It will work across Reading, Wokingham, Bracknell Forest and West Berkshire councils, as well as Windsor and Maidenhead, and Slough.
The funding will allow for an investment in new musical instruments, equipment and technology tailored to the needs of pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
It is hoped that through partnerships between educational, creative and community organisations, including a team-up with Slough Music Service, there will be more opportunities for music making.
The grant has been welcomed by Dawn Wren, CEO of the Berkshire Music Trust, who said: “I am
beyond delighted that our bid has been successful as fundamentally this partnership with Slough Music Service will enable us to reach and empower more children and young people than ever before.”
And Rebecca Richardson, Head of Slough Music Service said: “I am extremely pleased with the outcome of the bid. I am sure that our new partnership with Berkshire Music Trust will result in the continuation of high-quality music education in Slough, as well as allowing us to further develop our ability to provide music for all.”
The Government’s National Plan for Music Education aims to give all children and young people an opportunity to develop musical interests, including careers in the music industry.
Jon Carroll, Chair of the Berkshire Music Trust said: “We are thrilled to be appointed to lead the Berkshire Music Hub and are grateful for the significant investment from Arts Council England and the Department for Education. This funding will enable us to provide the highest quality music education to all children and young people throughout Berkshire, regardless of their background or ability. We look forward to working with our partners across the county – and beyond -to deliver a vibrant and inclusive programme that inspires creativity, builds confidence, and fosters a lifelong love of music – truly making music for everyone.”
Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, added: “We are so pleased to bring forward a new generation of Music Hubs in the South East, ensuring all children and young people can learn and make music.”
