At last night’s Isle of Wight council Executive Meeting, members voted in favour of amended proposals to extend financial support for the Music Service for one year.
The administration had proposed to end all funding to the Music Service – which provides over 2,500 children with music lessons each week on the Isle of Wight – at the end of the 2014 summer term. A new Music Hub would then be created, but this would need to be financially self-sustainable.
Priest: “Music education for all, not just a few”
Cllr Richard Priest, who presented the paper, explained that the gap between the Arts Council funding and the cost of the service on the Island had increased over the years.
He went on to add that a considerable consultation had taken place, with stakeholders and users of the service. He stressed the importance of “making music education on the Island for all and not just a few”.
Public protest
Following a public demonstration and widespread objection to the council ending support for the service, a new proposal was revealed last Friday that would see a transition period of one year.
Cllr Priest who proposed the motion, advised that although a year’s grace was being given to the Music Service, it would still have to make savings in the coming year.
Deputy leader, Cllr Steve Stubbings said he welcomed the extension, but acknowledged that some serious “bullet biting” would be needed some time in the future.
A 21st century Music Service
Leader of the council, Cllr Ian Stephens told members
“This is not a u-turn, this is a way forward, a way forward that is going to comprehensively change the Music Service for the young on the Island, but still give the Music Service a 21st Music Service to our young.”
All members voted in favour of the amended proposal.
Isle Of Wight Youth Concert Band’s Spring Concert
Islanders can show their support for those involved in the Music Service by booking now for the Isle Of Wight Youth Concert Band’s (pictured above) Spring Concert which takes place on 11th May at Medina Theatre.
Tickets are just £7.50 each.
