Music education is shaped by supply not demand, study finds
THE results of a study into music education have been launched at a primary school in the east end of Glasgow.
Experts from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) examined music education for the year-long study What’s Going On Now? (WGON).
It was launched at Thorntree Primary School in Shettleston and involved children from the school’s samba band and strings programme.
WGON revealed music is one of the most popular subjects on the curriculum and sixth most popular Advanced Higher in Scotland.
The review comes as accessibility and affordability of music education across the country is under the spotlight.
It found music education in Scotland is “shaped by supply” and not demand and there is”unmet demand” of more than 100,000 young people.
Shona Heggie, head teacher of Thorntree Primary School, said: “As a school in the East End of Glasgow, music is an integral part of our curriculum plan for raising attainment and closing the equity gap.
“The additional pupil equity funding from the Government has made it possible for us to create a fantastic, innovative and transformational project with our learning community partners which has given our children the beginning of a music education which will develop concentration, language and maths skills and hopefully a skill for life.”
The school is one of four East End primary schools taking part in the Baby Strings programme.
Primary one children are prepared for using instruments in primary two songs and games develop vocabulary, rhythm, pitch and motor skills.
Youngsters from P4 learn ukulele, while P7 pupils have samba tuition with strings’ tutors working with children in primaries five to seven.
Joan Parr, Creative Scotland’s interim director, arts
letters@ eveningtimes. co.uk and engagement, said: “We are delighted that the report highlights the positive impact that the Youth Music Initiative is having on creating access to high quality music making opportunities.
“Music enriches the lives of children and young people through developing skills, confidence and wellbeing, as well as providing opportunities for collaborating with others, learning about music and having fun.”