We hope that as many schools as possible will join with us in putting quality, everyday singing back as a valuable part of a young person’s school life.”
Garry Jones, Director of Warwickshire’s County Music Service
Warwickshire County Council’s Music Service will lead a singing campaign across the county as part of the Government’s new music manifesto.
Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, has launched a national campaign this week to make primary schools come alive with music.
A key feature of the music manifesto is the ‘Sing Up’ programme and the County Music Service will lead the way in Warwickshire and put singing back into the county’s classrooms.
The Government has committed £10m in the first year, across the country, to the programme, which will be invested in training teachers in vocal skills, involvement in performances, events and festivals, and the provision of a national song bank.
Garry Jones, Director of Warwickshire’s County Music Service, said: “The County Music Service is very proud to be the Sing Up Leader for Warwickshire. We hope that as many schools as possible will join with us in putting quality, everyday singing back as a valuable part of a young person’s school life.”
Warwickshire’s County Music Service will champion the project as part of a major West Midlands Consortium of eleven local authority music services, to provide even better musical opportunities for all schools in the region. The Music Service’s involvement in the programme is part of the County Council’s ongoing work to raise levels of educational attainment.
Of the music manifesto, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families Ed Balls said: “Everyone should get behind our efforts to make music a key part of the school day - for the educational and personal benefits for children and the cultural enrichment and enjoyment it brings people of all ages. “
The Sing Up campaign has also won the support of many music ambassadors including pop star Jamelia who said: “I’m so excited to be involved with the Sing Up campaign and can’t wait to get kids singing again. Singing in a class is something I got a great deal from as a child – it really helped to build up my confidence and taught me how to better express myself. I want all children to have the same opportunities to sing in school. It’s crucial that kids today learn how to find their voice and realise how much fun they can have through singing.”
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For more information please contact Rebecca Davidson at the Warwickshire County Council press office on 01926 414142.