The Welsh government’s National Endowment for Music has been launched to enable more young people to access musical opportunities.
Wales’ education secretary Kirsty Williams said the endowment would help ensure that all “young people, from whatever background, can develop their talents and skills through music”. She added: “Having experiences outside the classroom is a sure way to help children build confidence and discover what inspires them. In time, this endowment will provide extra chances for young people to access important education experiences.”
The Welsh government claimed the endowment would support local authority music services which “have been badly affected by the austerity imposed by the Westminster government”.
The initial £1 million has been provided to the Arts Council of Wales to cover the set up costs of the endowment.
The Welsh government’s ambition is that the fund will eventually generate at least £1 million per year, which will be used to fund additional music activities for young people across the country.
Phil George, chair of Arts Council of Wales, said: “Challenging times call for determined action. It’s more important than ever that we provide opportunities for young people to enrich their lives through artistic expression. This new fund is an invitation to private and corporate donors to join the Welsh government in nurturing young musical talents and helping them delight and amaze us all.”
The endowment is based on a recommendation by the Music Services Task and Finish Group and builds on the £20 million Creative Learning through the Arts Plan to support creative teaching and learning in schools.