"Music can be magic. It calls for and calls forth all human
virtues: imagination, discipline, teamwork, determination. It enriches
and inspires.
We have come together because we share a passion for the power of
music. We believe that music is important in itself and for its ability
to change how we think, feel and act. For this reason, music plays a
prominent part in young people's lives, both in and out of school, and
from the very earliest age.
We believe music has a unique contribution to make to education -
and by that we mean the education of all children, not just those with
the potential to become great professional musicians and composers. We
know that the creativity at the heart of music-making can help raise
attainment and motivate young people.
We believe that music is important for the social and cultural
values it represents and promotes, and for the communities it can help
to build and to unite. We share the conviction that music education
should reflect the diversity of Britain today and should be accessible
to everyone. We also recognise music for the important contribution it
makes to the economy.
In this country, we are extremely fortunate in the richness of our
musical heritage - and in the breadth and quality of our contemporary
resources. From professional orchestras to aspiring DJs, from composers
and songwriters to music publishers, from adult and mixed age ensembles
to the youngest musicians, we have many strengths. But we believe that
music can do more.
The signatories to this manifesto are committed to working together
to deliver an exciting range of musical experiences to all young
people, helping to create the soundtrack to their lives. The manifesto
sets out our shared priorities over the next five years. It is not a
conventional kind of manifesto. Most significantly, it is not a one-off
statement.
The first part of the manifesto represents our joint commitment - a
shared strategy and set of priorities for the future. The second part
allows each organisation to showcase its own distinctive contribution.
As each of our organisations moves forward, we will use this manifesto
as a benchmark for our activity and Government will use it as a guide
for future policy development. In this way we hope it will continue to
inspire new supporters, and support initiatives, rather than gathering
dust............
..........The time is ripe for a Music Manifesto. There is a groundswell of
interest, energy and support from people who want to work together to
ensure better music opportunities for all. There is an increasing
belief in the power of music to contribute to whole school development
and community regeneration. There is greater understanding about what
young people want and an increased recognition of the need to bring
music education into the 21st century.
Our vision is simple. We want to build pathways for progression in
music so that all young people, whatever their background or abilities,
have access to a rich and diverse range of musical experiences, within
and outside school. We want to create opportunities for young people to
pursue their interest wherever it takes them and to develop their
talents to the full.
For some, the guidance and support they receive will lead to a
passion for music which will last throughout their lives. For others it
will lead directly to careers in music - as teachers, producers,
composers or performers. Finally, we want to develop a flourishing
music sector, strongly supported by music technology and the broadcast
media.
The experience of each individual must lie at the heart of this vision. Working together, we have five key aims to fulfill."
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