All Young People Should Learn Music, Education Secretary Says

All young people should be given the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument, the Education Secretary has said.

Michael Gove, who has launched an independent review of music education, said giving young people the chance to experience music was central to raising standards.

Research has shown that quality music education improves children's behaviour, attention and concentration. It also has a hugely positive affect on numeracy and language skills.

The review will look at how to make music funding benefit more young people, as well as how to improve the music opportunities young people receive both in and out of school.

“It’s a sad fact that too many children in state schools are denied the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument,” Mr Gove said.

He added that it was “simply unfair that the joy of musical discovery should be the preserve of those whose parents can afford it”.

The independent review of music education is expected to publish its recommendations before the end of the year.

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