Despite contributing £7.6 billion to the economy in 2024, the UK Music Industry continues to face challenges, with numerous state schools reducing or cutting music programmes due to financial constraints. In an interview with MXDWN UK, alternative rock band Undici and producer/DJ Oscar McCree emphasised the vital role of schools in nurturing young musicians and emerging artists.
A report by the Cultural Learning Alliance revealed both a lack of engagement and a lack of staff to facilitate music education in schools across the country, revealing shocking statistics such as a 41% decrease in students enrolling in GCSE Music courses between 2010 and 2023.
During this same period, student participation continued to decline with A-Level Music entries dropping by 46% since 2010. These trends highlight the urgent need for greater funding and support.
“The ongoing defunding of music education in state schools in UK is having a corrosive effect on the entire music profession. Early-years education is imperative to ensuring a career in music is a viable option to talented students of all backgrounds.” https://t.co/KbpNZEMbeF.
— Jennifer Johnston (@jjohnstonmezzo) April 21, 2024
Speaking to MXDWN, Undici, a band formed at the BRIT School in 2022, underscores the importance of a structured and supportive music curriculum. The bassist, Campbell, reflected on the stark contrast between his previous schooling and the opportunities at BRIT, which he described as a space that “facilitates discussion and actively wants to help artists evolve.”
The BRIT school is a performing arts school in London, known for producing top talents in music, theatre, film, and digital media, notably Adele, Amy Winehouse, and Tom Holland.
Undici have made an excellent start to joining these world renowned alumni, winning the 2024 Battle of the Bands Junior competition and developing a distinctive sound. Campbell credits their diverse musical influences for their unique style, saying, “Each member’s vastly different tastes and styles is a key strength of the band, providing us with different viewpoints to share with each other and giving us a unique sound.”
Similarly, emerging producer and DJ Oscar McCree, shared his experience as a student at BIMM Institute, a group of colleges specialising in contemporary music education.
With state-of-the-art facilities and promoting industry connections, McCree cites the BIMM as playing a pivotal role in his artistic growth by “pushing him out of his comfort zone” and giving him the freedom to evolve his sound. However, he reflected that his GCSE Music course sparked his passion for music production.
Initially focused on dance music, McCree has shifted towards more ambient sounds, constantly expanding his production abilities. His latest release ‘Alone’ showcases his experimental approach and was released just over a month after his DJ debut in Chelsea, an energy-infused event that marks the beginning of many more for the rising artist.
While these institutions may not be accessible to all, they can serve as inspiration for the national music curriculum. Their success proves that focus on creative subjects and structured support for emerging talent is vital to sustaining the UK’s creative industries.
Reports such as the Night Time Industries Association study on the importance of electronic music as well as government discussions on AI and copyright policy suggest potential changes in the music industry’s landscape.
The decline of music education in UK state schools presents a significant challenge, not just for aspiring musicians but for the creative industry as a whole. Both Undici and Oscar McCree highlight the significance of creative spaces for supporting artists and connecting them with others in these sectors. The industry is at risk of losing future talent before it has a chance to develop, thus urgent investment in education is vital for its survival.
