ISM Irate with Government Cuts

The Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) has spoken out against proposed Government cuts to funding for music lessons.

According to the ISM, national funding for music lessons has fallen from £82.5 million in 2010/11, to £58 million this year. The funds are distributed to 122 “music education hubs” which oversee the funding.

As reported by The Independent, Violinist Nicola Benedetti said: “This isn’t an investment into the lives of musicians and artists, but in that of our entire society. This misunderstanding could cost the soul of this nation dearly”.

Benedetti continued: “It is widely acknowledged that music education can improve numeracy, literacy and social interaction, and it deeply confuses and saddens me that we are having to fight so hard to save it”.

Musicians supporting the initiative include Radiohead’s Johnny Greenwood and Julian Lloyd Webber. Find out more here.