Future Talent will be an initial guiding force for talented young people of Primary school age. Our concept is simple if children see music as a goal they wish to pursue then we will not only actively encourage them, but will also monitor, fund and advise each individual as they progress.

Music forms an essential element in our society. It is the right of every child to have access to that art. The present spotlight on the improvement of the arts in general in schools is both significant and stimulating. Future Talent is pledged to support these initiatives whilst focusing on those who emerge with an ability and aptitude for music.

Professor Edward Gregson, principal of the Royal Northern College of Music and chair of the new organisation Conservatoires UK, says:

To our collective concern, the most recent data has demonstrated that over the past five years or so, fewer children from the state sector are coming to conservatoires. Professor Curtis Price, principal of the Royal Academy of Music, states that the problem stems from a lack of sufficiently trained young musicians from the state sector . Furthermore, he adds that this has been precipitated by the withdrawal of free instrumental teaching in state schools since the 1980s.

The Music Manifesto, Youth Music, Future Talent and all the other positive initiatives of recent times are only the beginning of a long journey to regain lost ground. It will take a number of years yet for the results to improve.

Andy Swallow, Head of Schools Achievement & Standards in Hull, shows his support of Future Talent in the following statement:

I have always been an advocate of specialist music teaching from an early age. There is no question that music can make a significant contribution to children s general listening and speaking skills, widen their understanding and use of language, and improve their general poise and confidence. Rehearsing and performing with others creates an early appreciation for ‘teamship’ and collaboration. They develop key attitudes such as tolerance, patience, respect. There is no question that musical experiences, at an early age, foster concentration and determination, can increase aural memory, can raise expectations of individuals and others, contributing massively to feelings of self-worth and self-belief.

There is no question about the essential need for outside support in this area. Schools are desperate these days to recognise and reward, wherever possible, the talents of all children, not just the academic gifts of the few.