ABO Calls for ‘An Orchestra in Every School’ to Expand Music Access for Children

The Association of British Orchestras (ABO) has launched a new initiative calling for the establishment of “An Orchestra in Every School,” aiming to make music-making more accessible to all children across the UK.

As part of the campaign, the ABO urges the government to ensure that every child has at least two hours of meaningful music-making each week, along with regular access to live music experiences. The initiative emphasizes the vital role of music in developing creativity, teamwork, academic performance, and mental wellbeing.

Judith Webster, chief executive of the ABO, stated: “Music education must not be a privilege for the few. This is about giving every child, no matter their background, the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of making music.”

The campaign highlights successful models, such as the Shireland CBSO Academy in the West Midlands, which works in partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) to provide students with free instruments and music lessons.

ABO is calling on the UK government to increase funding for music education in the upcoming national budget. Key recommendations include raising the status of arts in the school curriculum, improving music teacher training and recruitment, and addressing the shortage of instruments and resources.

The proposal has received widespread support from the music education community and is being viewed as a crucial step toward greater cultural equity and long-term investment in the next generation of musicians.