As it celebrates its 21st anniversary, EMI Music Sound Foundation has revealed a name change and a landmark total in donations, grants and bursasries aimed at improving access to music education for young people.
It will now be called Universal Music UK Sound Foundation. It was first set up in 1997 with a capital investment and has distributed £8m over the last 21 years.
Universal Music UK Sound Foundation has invested a total of £2.4 million helping to support 26 secondary schools across the country, enabling them to specialise in performing arts and music. As part of the 21st anniversary, on top of their yearly award of £6,000, each of the sponsored state schools received an extra £5,000 in funding for 2018.
As well as supporting children in both primary and secondary school musical development, the charity also offers annual bursaries to 11 partner music colleges and organisations to assist with students’ fees and living expenses. More than 600 applicants have benefited from the programme.
Commenting on the bursary support that the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts receives, Sir Paul McCartney said: “On behalf of our students, from Liverpool and beyond, we are grateful for these awards which help make what can be impossible, possible. The Universal Music UK Sound Foundation is enabling many worthy students to learn, despite financial handicaps.”
Adam Barker, chair of trustees, Universal Music UK Sound Foundation, said: “Since our inception in 1997, the Foundation has focused on ensuring that the significant benefits and the joy of studying music remain available to as many young people from all backgrounds across the UK as possible. Universal Music is proud that our support allows 100% of the charity’s funding to be channeled to the vital work that the newly re-named and highly respected Universal Music UK Sound Foundation undertakes year after year.”
“For so many young people music is an incredibly important lifeline,” said Yoko Ono. “I am delighted to have supported the Foundation for 20 years and to have seen the positive impact they have made to so many schools and individuals through the power of music.”
“Music is about so much more than just learning to play an instrument or read music or spotting the protégés of the future,” said Janie Orr, CEO, Universal Music UK Sound Foundation. “Music can bring huge benefits to all children, including self-confidence and motivation, regardless of their musical ability.”
The music industry contributes over £4.5 billion to the UK economy every year. The charity said it remains committed to contributing to the industry’s future.
Sir Cliff Richard added: “I have been fortunate to have had a successful musical career for over 60 years, so I fully support the work of the Foundation. By generously helping with the purchase of musical instruments and equipment and by way of invaluable personal bursaries, the Foundation has helped thousands of young musicians pursue their dreams.”
By Gabriel Summers
