This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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National Youth Music Strategy
10/11/2006
A National Youth Music Strategy designed to ensure that every child and young person in Scotland has the opportunity to enjoy and develop their musical talent was launched today.
This is Scotland's first long-term strategy for Youth Music. It is the result of extensive consultation with the sector conducted by Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama on behalf of the Youth Music Initiative (YMI).
The YMI, which is administered by the Scottish Arts Council, was set up by the Scottish Executive in 2003, and now extended to 2008, with an overall budget of 37.5 million.
It sets out an action plan with four principal aims:
- provide music-making experience
- build capacity of the music education sector to cope with extra demand
- encourage more young people to participate
- develop individual talent to its full potential
At the Music and New Musicians conference in Glasgow, Culture Minister Patricia Ferguson said:
"Music plays a critical role in the development of young people. Not only does it encourage creativity, providing opportunities for self expression - it also builds confidence, self esteem and emotional well being.
"This new long-term strategy encourages a coherent approach across all musical sectors, offering opportunities for all children and young people to experience music, supporting their creativity and aspirations."
David MacDonald, the Scottish Arts Council's Youth Music Manager, said:
"Our knowledge of the success of the Youth Music Initiative shows that children and young people are enthusiastic about the opportunities provided through YMI.
"We want to see that foundation built on and expanded across different environments, in school and out of school.
"Our biggest hurdle is ensuring that there is enough quality tuition available for young people and that young people themselves can take a hand in organising the opportunities available to them."
The Youth Music Initiative was established in 2003, backed with £17.5 million funding over three years from the SE. This was extended to 2008, with 10 million provided each year.
The YMI comprises two strands; the first in the 'formal' education sector, i.e. schools; the second is the 'informal sector' which refers to projects and activities which take place outside of schools.
The National Youth Music strategy provides a framework which can be used by all organisations and individuals working in music with children and young people when planning and implementing programmes of work. The associated Action Plan 2006-2008, outlines how the Scottish Arts Council, through the YMI, will contribute to the strategic vision.
The strategy is available to download at: http://www.scottisharts.org.uk/1/information/publications/1003923.aspx