British orchestras have launched an ambitious plan to revive music education by creating school-based ensembles, ensuring every child has access to live music. The initiative, led by the Association of British Orchestras (ABO), aims to protect the UK’s £7.6bn music industry by engaging over one million young people in 2025—regardless of their school’s resources or their own abilities.
A Crisis in Music Education
Recent data reveals a sharp decline in music participation. A Cultural Learning Alliance report shows a 43% drop in A-Level Music entries since 2010, with 42% of secondary schools no longer offering Music GCSE. Meanwhile, a Demos study found a £161.4m shortfall in music education funding—a gap the new government must address.
The Plan: “An Orchestra in Every School”
The ABO’s proposal includes:
- 1,000+ live music events in schools by 2025.
- A legal guarantee of at least two hours of music weekly for all students up to age 16.
- Ensuring every school has either its own orchestra (flexibly defined) or regular access to live performances.
Judith Webster, ABO Chief Executive, stressed the urgency: “Recent figures show why this initiative is vital. Group music-making boosts focus, mood, and social bonds—and live performances create powerful emotional connections. Our goal is for every UK school to have its own orchestra or live music access.”
Why It Matters
Studies prove that live music enhances cognitive, emotional, and social development in children. With declining opportunities, the ABO warns that without action, the UK risks losing its world-leading music sector—and a generation of young musicians.
The ABO now urges the government to back the plan, ensuring no child misses out on the transformative power of music.
