Young Sounds UK, the music education charity, is launching a £5.8m Music Opportunities Pilot in collaboration with the UK Government. The new scheme aims to help young people from low-income households, and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), to progress their musical talents.
The Music Opportunities Pilot, which receives £2 million from the Department for Education, will support up to 1,000 young musicians over the next four years across 12 regions.
Children with musical potential will receive free weekly instrumental or singing lessons, personal bursaries, and access to mentors. Those participating in the programme will also attend termly Get Together events, to meet fellow aspiring musicians and professional musicians, and to develop their skills.
The scheme builds on the success of the Young Sounds UK Connect initiative, which has been running for 15 years, and will now broaden its reach.
Arts minister, Chris Bryant said: 'This support will help to make sure that every child has access to high-quality creative education. Music should never be the preserve of a privileged few. I want everyone to have a chance to realise their talent regardless of their background.'
Young Sounds UK will cooperate with a range of partners, including the BBC, National Youth Orchestra, and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Youth Music and Arts Council England will also provide funding, as will individual donors and charitable trusts.
For full information, visit: youngsounds.org.uk