The evidence shows that the non-formal music sector can make a significant contribution towards improving children's lives and could make them more employable.
Young people in challenging circumstances, such as those living in care or rural isolation, or those with special needs, showed increased confidence and empowerment, social and team working skills and more positive attitudes towards education.
Meanwhile, children aged five and younger also benefited from enhanced social skills, along with language and speech improvement.
Dr. Douglas Lonie, Research and Evaluation Manager, Youth Music said: ‘The research supports findings from around the world that shows how learning music can improve all manner of outcomes for children and young people – especially those who find it difficult to communicate or express themselves through more traditional means.
'...It's vital that we understand how to support young musicians to progress in whatever genre of music they are making. The future of the UK’s creative economy rests on the shoulders of these innovative and amazingly talented young people, and we all have a responsibility to encourage and support their ambitions in an ever-evolving cultural landscape.’
Against a backdrop of falling participation of five- to 10-year-olds in musical activities outside of school (down from 55 percent in 2008-9 to 41 percent in 2011-12), the charity has supported 386 music projects over the last year, the highest number ever.
A full copy of Youth Music’s Impact Report is available at www.youthmusic.org.uk/impact11-12
Young people in challenging circumstances, such as those living in care or rural isolation, or those with special needs, showed increased confidence and empowerment, social and team working skills and more positive attitudes towards education.
Meanwhile, children aged five and younger also benefited from enhanced social skills, along with language and speech improvement.
Dr. Douglas Lonie, Research and Evaluation Manager, Youth Music said: ‘The research supports findings from around the world that shows how learning music can improve all manner of outcomes for children and young people – especially those who find it difficult to communicate or express themselves through more traditional means.
'...It's vital that we understand how to support young musicians to progress in whatever genre of music they are making. The future of the UK’s creative economy rests on the shoulders of these innovative and amazingly talented young people, and we all have a responsibility to encourage and support their ambitions in an ever-evolving cultural landscape.’
Against a backdrop of falling participation of five- to 10-year-olds in musical activities outside of school (down from 55 percent in 2008-9 to 41 percent in 2011-12), the charity has supported 386 music projects over the last year, the highest number ever.
A full copy of Youth Music’s Impact Report is available at www.youthmusic.org.uk/impact11-12
