20.05.2022: UK Music has welcomed new plans from the Welsh Government to give all primary school children in Wales free access to a musical instrument.

Children will have free access to a musical instrument from September as part of the scheme, which also includes a new national instrument and equipment library to be shared across Wales.

The aim is to make access to music education fairer and more consistent across Wales, with a particular focus on learners from low-income households and those with additional learning needs.

The scheme was announced by Minister for Education Jeremy Miles, as part of the Welsh Government’s newly announced National Plan for Music Education, which can be read here. He confirmed that funding for music education will be trebled, with £13.5m being invested over the next three years.

Find out more about the impact of this plan in this BBC piece here.

Welcoming the announcement, UK Music’s Director of Education and Skills Dr Oliver Morris said:

“This is fantastic news and a very strong move that really places music at the heart of a young person’s educational journey in Wales.

“I am sure the benefits for not only individuals but schools and communities will be felt for years to come.

“I am yet again extremely proud of my home country and congratulate Jeremy Miles MS and the Welsh Government on their work.”

Oliver added: “Hoffwn ddweud llongyfarchiadau i bawb sydd wedi gweithio ar y cynllun pwysig hwn. Diolch i chi i gyd!” [I would like to say congratulations to everyone who worked on this important plan. Thank you all!)”