Young people will be given an opportunity to explore their love of music through special lessons and mentoring after Bury was selected to receive a slice of £5.8 million.

More than a dozen young people will have a chance to enjoy a musical education that may otherwise have been denied to them because of their circumstances.

Pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds or with SEND will get targeted support to unlock their musical potential, thanks to a new scheme designed to break down the barriers to opportunity and advance their talents.

The government’s Music Opportunities Pilot will expand on Young Sounds UK’s existing programme – Young Sounds Connect – which offers pupils across primary and secondary schools the opportunity to learn to play an instrument of their choice or how to sing to a high standard by providing free lessons and supporting young people to progress, including taking music exams.

Backed by £5.8million, co-funded by the government and partners including Young Sounds UK, Arts Council England and Youth Music, the programme aims to inspire the next generation of British musicians across twelve areas - one of which is Bury. 

Bury Music Head of Service, Gemma Price said: “We are delighted to have been chosen and are working with Young Sounds to ensure children of Bury get the most out of this fantastic opportunity.

“Bury Music are working with Bury schools to identify 14 children who will receive fully funded instrumental or vocal lessons for the next four years.

"The programme allows children with a keen interest in music to access lessons support and guidance, who would not otherwise be able to.

"They receive a lesson every week, an instrument provided by Bury Music and many additional benefits, experiences and support including a bursary to support their learning and regular ‘Get Together’ events."

She added: "It is a child centred approach supported by an online Individual Learning Plan (ILP.) The pupils also have the support of an AYM Alumnus Mentor.” 

School Standards Minister, Catherine McKinnell said: “The arts are one of the most important ways to help children and young people to develop creativity and find their voice. Music opportunities should be available to all pupils – no matter their background or circumstance.

“Following a summer filled with vibrant festivals and creative acts that filled the streets with energy, it’s clear the role music plays in enriching lives. By investing in our young people we not only nurture individual talent, but also secure the future of the UK’s rich music scene by fostering a deep appreciation for music from an early age.

“Alongside our Curriculum and Assessment Review, the Music Opportunities pilot will help break down the barriers to opportunity by widening access to the arts for more young people across the country.”

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Hester Cockcroft, Chief Executive of Young Sounds UK said: “Young Sounds Connect is designed to help young people from low-income families lead their own musical learning after whole-class lessons end, connecting them to funding, opportunities and each other, so they can keep on progressing as musicians.

"15 years since it was first piloted, we’re delighted to be able to supercharge the programme model over the next four years through the Music Opportunities Pilot.

“Collaborating with parents/carers, music educators, and an amazing group of Music Hubs and national partners, we’ll continue to learn together, and share our learning, so that many more young people’s musical lives can flourish in the future.”

Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “Music should never be the preserve of a privileged few. I want everyone to have a chance to realise their talent regardless of their background."