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EXCLUSIVE
A huge majority of British people have demanded the next government prioritise boosting music education in schools to save the subject from a “spiral into oblivion”.
Exclusive research conducted by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on behalf of Daily Express found a resounding 76% of people believe urgent action must be taken to ensure the talent pipeline feeding the nation’s current world-leading music industry is saved.
And as millions of people enjoying televise coverage of the Glastonbury Festival this weekend they have demanded the next Prime Minister to take measures to ensure the subject’s current ‘second class status’ is overturned and that classrooms are once again filled with the sound of music lessons.
The Daily Express’ Strike A Chord campaign is calling for music to be given equal educational status to English, maths and science – as the current baccalaureate system makes it tough for arts subjects to compete.
The flawed system, branded “a sham” by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, has led to a 50% slump in A-level student numbers, and 19% fall at GCSE level in the past decade.
But the new poll of over 2,000 adults consulted throughout June, has exposed how voters believe more must be done to support arts and culture in Britain – with a specific focus on young people, a democratisation of access and more music lessons in primary schools seen to be key priorities
Respondents said increased funding for state schools to deliver music and singing lessons should be made available with a drive to increase the accessibility of all genres of music to children from a diverse range of backgrounds.
Our crusade is also demanding better support for grassroots music venues which are currently closing at a rate of one a week whilst huge arena and stadium shows are booming.
The RPO survey found people want more levelling-up funds to support regional and grassroots venues and a reduction on the rate of VAT for concert tickets.
Andrew Storey, principal second violin, and chair of the RPO said: “The future of UK music will spiral into oblivion unless the government takes urgent action to boost the provision of music lessons in all schools, but particularly primary and junior schools. Of course, English and maths are important, but so is music. Almost everyone enjoys music on their smart phone, computer or radio and millions of people love going to live concerts. The next government must invest now in tomorrow’s music industry and ensure that the opportunity to learn a musical instrument is a right not a privilege.”