Musical achievements get schools’ singing
20 Feb 2020 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
More schools in Northumberland are benefitting from a music education hub than in many similar partnerships across the country.
Feedback from Arts Council England has revealed that engagement by schools in Northumberland and Newcastle with the Music Education Hub, known as Music Partnership North (MPN), is above the national average for similar services.
During 2018-19 MPN worked with 80 per cent of schools across Northumberland and Newcastle, compared to the national average of 71.5 per cent.
It was found that the MPN also achieved higher than national average statistics in providing opportunities for all children to learn to play a musical instrument, with 52.8 per cent of students receiving weekly instrumental tuition against the national average of 47.3 per cent.
Through Arts Council funding students have the opportunity to experience playing an instrument from one of the largest and most diverse instrument ranges, including some unique instruments such as Northumbrian pipes, accordion, harp and concertina.
There was also praise for the wide range of performance opportunities provided through the Music Education Hub.
Cllr Wayne Daley, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council and cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This is an amazing opportunity for young people to expand their skills in music. We recently heard the story of local Bedlington pupil, Ben, who has benefitted from the scheme which helped him overcome several health issues and improve his confidence.
“We want as many children as possible to expand their horizons by participating in music services on offer with Music Partnership North.”
Jacky Craig, the lead officer for both music services, said: “This is something the team within MPN have been focusing closely on and are delighted that more children than ever are involved in learning music in some way.
“It is always gratifying to receive praise and recognition for the hard work we do across both authorities and we are committed to enriching the lives of all children and young people through engagement and participation in quality music activities.
“These results are down to an excellent working relationship with the schools, parents and cultural partners in our region and the dedication of our instrumental tutors who are working with these students every day.”
To find out more about Music Partnership North click here