Continuing to sing for my supper

Really good news from the Henley Report on music. Virtually the only subject in the curriculum to have an underpinning review. At the Sing Up National Gathering (see my blog of 30/11/10) I called for the extension of both Sing Up and the Wider Opportunities scheme for children to engage with instrumental work. I'm delighted that the Government has resounded positively to the Report and is extending both approaches with funding of £82.5 million, and a National Plan for Music to follow. The creation of ring-fenced funded Hubs in each LA area gives some hope within a diificult context of LA Music services coming under intense pressure. There are now key discussions about the detailed use of the announced funding involving the Sing Up consortium as it is indicated that Sing Up itself has to be self-sustaining after this additional slimmed down year. Let's hope this leads to a secure and vibrant future for children and music.