Awards for Young Musicians increases support as toll on music education laid bare

Monday, December 7, 2020

UK charity Awards for Young Musicians is working to ameliorate the damage to music education for children from low-income families

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, 68% of primary and 39% of secondary school teachers have noted a reduction in music provision, according to a new report by the ISM.

In response to these findings, Awards for Young Musicians (AYM) have stated their continued support for young musicians from low-income families throughout the UK.

AYM chief executive Hester Cockcroft commented: 'This report underlines what we know from working with our partners across the UK. Musical talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not, and Covid-19 has only exacerbated the obstacles young people from low income families face. We’re continuing to adapt and increase our funding and other support for individuals to ensure they can continue to make music, which is vital at such a challenging time for music education.'

She continued by outlining the ways in which AYM is providing support: 'Firstly we’re providing continuity by helping with broadband and data costs, borrowing laptops etc, so that young people can continue with instrumental lessons and musical learning at home if it’s not possible at school.

'Secondly, community: young musicians often feel isolated at the best of times, particularly if they can’t make music in or out of school, so we’re bringing them and their teachers together online for an ongoing series of webinars, get togethers and workshops.

'Thirdly, inspiration is absolutely key to help young people maintain momentum and motivation and our inspiring Patrons have been busy helping in every way they can too!'

Cockcroft concluded: 'The impact on music teachers has also been devastating. The ISM’s report is based on over 1,300 responses from music teachers, many of whom face great uncertainty. We recognise that this is extremely challenging, and have maintained our programmes and continued to support music leaders as much as we can, eg via our regular Teachers’ Forums.'

https://www.a-y-m.org.uk/