Music Network, with funding from the Arts Council, has launched a strategy to improve music education provision in Ireland that will make music education available to all children irrespective of their geographical location and their social and economic circumstances.A Music Education Working Group has recently been established by Music Network, to raise awareness of the value of music education and of the need for a national system of local music education services. This follows the publication of Music Network’s report A National System of Local Music Education Services - Report of a Feasibility Study 2003.

The group, recently presented a proposal to the Special Committee on Arts and Education, jointly convened by the Ministers for Education and Arts, Sports and Tourism, outlining the key issues in relation to the structures, systems and resources required to develop and facilitate a comprehensive national system of music education provision. This report recommends a workable and cost efficient solution that will make music education available to all children of the state.

In addition, the Music Education Working Group in its role as the advocate will hold a seminar in Dublin on 18th April, under the aegis of Music Network, to inform and assist relevant agencies and partners about current developments and approaches towards achieving a structured and co-ordinated music education service.

Aibhlín McCrann, Chair of the Music Education Working Group commented that “There is an urgent imperative for a planned, integrated approach to music education at a national level so that the potential and talent of our young people can be developed. This seminar will be of great interest and benefit to everybody interested in the provision of music education. We particularly look forward to hearing the views of those who are advocating for the provision of music education at local level as well as gaining insights from policy makers, organisations and practitioners who are currently developing or implementing local music education initiatives”.

The seminar will take place in The Coach House, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2 on Wednesday 18th April from 9.00 a.m. to 17.00 p.m.

For further details and bookings contact Music Network, Tel 01 671 9429.

www.musicnetwork.ie