Life After MusicLeader
Jim Pinchen (Workforce Development Manager: Rhythmix and MusicLeader South East) reflects on the future of the sector with the closure of MusicLeader and the new Music Education Hubs and Youth Music Modules.
Life after MusicLeader
MusicLeader host organisations have all been lucky enough to securing Musical Inclusion modules in our prospective regions. We submitted our stage two applications whilst supporting our (mostly) Local Authority lead organisation’s Music Education Hub proposals. In this rare moment where it’s possible to take a short breathe it’s worth stepping outside of the complex web that is made up of formal and non formal music education sectors, music and arts organisations, funders, proposals, reports, funding bids and take a slightly holistic look at the role of training and CPD in the emerging landscape.
At a time when we’re starting the process of closing down MusicLeader and it’s services, I believe the programme is ironically needed now more than ever which presents quite a challenge and an opportunity for us as host organisations. When I talk to Music Services, although a significant number have been adversely affected and almost crippled in some cases by future funding allocations, they are largely enthused by the thought of leading on a new Music Education Hub. When I talk to them about best practice where Music Services are commissioned to deliver consultation to Young Asylum seekers through music, delivering projects to Looked After Children and Young Offenders alongside non-formal music educators and creating exciting and innovative music technology opportunities for those who work within disability settings their collective eyes light up at the potential possibilities. I believe, perhaps lightly romantically, that this is because all of those involved in music education have at some stage in their lives felt the awesome magic and spark of music, why else would they continue down a route that constantly has it’s neck within the reach of the sharp axe of funding cuts, where the work is often sporadic and in high demand and where the pay is barely enough to survive! Through MusicLeader host organisations and their partners the MusicLeader legacy should equip the emerging MEHs and their workforces with the skills to deliver and exceed their plans as laid out in prospective Arts Council bids.
In essence do this; Reignite this spark and encourage inspirationally led MEHs that deliver creative and sometimes risky music education to the benefit of all of our children and young people.
For more information on the announcement visit the Arts Council England website -http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/news/arts-council-news/we-announce-successful-music-education-hub-applica/