New school music pilot aims to nurture talent

A multimillion-pound scheme to give disadvantaged schoolchildren and those with special educational needs support with music has been launched.

The £5.8m Music Opportunities Pilot aims to widen access to music and the arts in 12 areas in England.

These areas include Bradford, Stoke-on-Trent, Bury and Sunderland.

School Standards Minister Catherine McKinnell said: “Music opportunities should be available to all pupils - no matter their background or circumstance.”

The pilot aims to expand on charity Young Sounds UK's existing programme - Young Sounds Connect - which helps pupil learn to play an instrument or sing to a high standard, by providing free lessons and support.

"By investing in our young people we not only nurture individual talent but also secure the future of the UK's rich music scene by fostering a deep appreciation for music from an early age,” McKinnell added.

Hester Cockcroft, chief executive of Young Sounds UK, said the scheme would help “supercharge” their model.

The project, which is funded by £2m from the Department for Education and £3.85m funding from Young Sounds UK and its partners, will run over four years.