A world-leading manufacturer of outdoor musical instruments has called for immediate and sustained investment in music education across the UK.
Percussion Play has added its support to a recent open letter addressed to Sir Keir Starmer and the British Government that highlights a 21% decline in music provision in state schools and urges the Government to take action.
The letter was signed by prominent music artists including Ed Sheeran, Annie Lennox, Coldplay, and DJ Fred Again. It points to five key areas requiring attention:
- increased funding for music education in schools
- enhanced training for music teachers
- support for grassroots music venues
- expanded music apprenticeship opportunities
- the development of a more inclusive and diverse music curriculum.
Percussion Play’s co-founder and CEO, Jody Ashfield, said: ‘We firmly believe that music should be accessible to all, regardless of background, age, or location. Early music education is crucial for children's development, nurturing creativity, language skills, motor coordination, and literacy.
‘It is essential that schools are equipped with the resources to offer these opportunities. With increased investment, we hope that children in the UK and across the globe will have the chance to experience the transformative power of music-making.’
