A unique coalition of prominent members from the music industry, education and leading music organisations came together today to promote music education across the country.
 
The Music Manifesto launched by School Standards Minister David Miliband, Arts Minister Estelle Morris and an historic 70-strong coalition is aimed at putting music at the heart of every school.
 
The manifesto commits the signatories to five key priorities to drive improvement:
To provide every young person with first access to a range of music experiences
To provide more opportunities for young people to deepen and broaden their musical interests and skills
To identify and nurture our most talented young musicians
To develop a world class workforce in music education
To improve the support structures for young people's music making
These are backed up by pledges of action from the partners to make these priorities a reality. These can be found at www.musicmanifesto.co.uk.
 
The launch at EMI's Abbey Road Studios was supported by leading figures of the music industry including Sir George Martin, Feargal Sharkey, and pop star Jamelia.
 
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David Miliband said:
 
"Standards and creativity go hand in hand. Music is central to our drive to provide an enriched and balanced curriculum for all school children.
 
"The manifesto is a routemap for the future of music in school and by schoolchildren. This is just the start – we expect new pledges and new signatories to come on board this unique collaboration.
 
"As part of the Government's pledge I am happy to announce that on top of the rising general school funding which includes use for music we will continue with the ringfenced Music Standards Fund until 2008 – almost £180 million between now and 2008, guaranteed."
 
Estelle Morris said:
 
"Today's children are tomorrow's talent.  If we are to remain at the
forefront of global music making, we must ensure we offer the widest
possible music education for young people.  The Music Manifesto marks a
major step towards achieving that goal.  It will help ensure young people,
whatever their background or ability have access to rich and diverse musical
experiences and the opportunities to develop their musical talents."
 
Jamelia said:
 
 "I would have been so happy to know that this initiative was around when I was at school. There are many ways for a person to discover they have a talent but, without early encouragement, that talent can go unexplored for years.
 
"I was 15 years old when I got signed to a record deal, and my musical education was listening to records with my friends. I was lucky. I continued with my studies after I was signed, and was able to work on my music at the same time. Anything that makes it easier for kids to explore their creativity and musical talent can only be a good thing. It means that social background or lack of money need not be a hindrance. Resources are open to everyone. I come from an average family and would have welcomed this amazing opportunity so much, had it been available to me at the time."