The Isle of Wight council has been successful in its bid to have an Arts Council funded Music Hub on the Island.
Readers will remember that VB broke the news of proposed changes to the Music Service back in March.
The Isle of Wight is one of 15 music hubs approved in the South East region. Sally Abbott, Regional Director, Arts Council England, said, “We look forward to working with the fifteen music education hubs that have been selected in the South East.
“They will give all children and young people in this region the chance to develop their talents in a diverse range of music – from classical to RnB and jazz.
“We look forward to supporting the wide range of organisations involved to work together to develop a superb programme that will form part of every child and young person’s cultural education.”
Jobs still be at risk
Although this is good news in terms of funding for music education on the Island, those working in the Music Service are still at risk of losing their jobs.
The outcome of a consultation into various options in relation to the future of the Music Service will be presented to the Cabinet in July.
“We welcome the news”
Steve Beynon, Isle of Wight Council chief executive said “We welcome the news from the Arts Council that the Isle of Wight Music Service’s bid to become a Music Education Hub has been successful.
“The council is currently discussing options for the future direction of the service with a range of organisations and individuals who have an interest in the service.
“Following these discussions, the council will produce a number of options which will go out to public consultation ahead of a report being put before Cabinet later this year.”
