Huw Lewis, Minister for Education and Skills
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
In March 2015 I commissioned the formation of a task and finish group to look at the provision offered by local authority music services in Wales, including the provision of musical instrument tuition on school premises.
Music is an integral, enriching and energising force within the curriculum and the wider education of our children. All young people deserve the chance to experience music as part of their lives and we must ensure that these opportunities are preserved.
I am pleased to say that the group has now published its report, which includes a series of recommendations for the Welsh Government, local authorities and other stakeholders. In particular I am very interested in their recommendation for a possible endowment to support the development of grassroots music.
Time will now be given for all the organisations affected by these recommendations to digest the report and make their opinions known. I will be making an official response to the report after the summer recess.