Michael German calls for Music Manifesto for Wales

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 24th Apr 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Leader Mike German today called on the Assembly Government to give more support to youth music. Mr German has laid down a statement of opinion in the National Assembly calling for a Music Manifesto for Wales.

"As a former music teacher, I am worried by the cuts in funding and the lack of national direction for youth music. Our country has a rich musical heritage and it is essential that young talent is properly supported. Where would Katherine Jenkins or Bryn Terfel be without crucial early support from their teachers?

"Wales' musical heritage is at stake. I am disappointed that Rhodri Morgan declined to meet with thirty two of Wales' top musicians who petitioned him on this issue.

"I believe the issue that they raise is an important one. We need a Music Manifesto for Wales. A manifesto which will provide a clear vision for youth music in Wales, supported by the funding necessary to resource it. I want to bring together music teachers, performers, artist and composers from across Wales to set out our musical ambitions.

"Rhodri needs to meet with these people to hear what the experts think of youth music in Wales. He must answer the challenge put to him by some of Wales' leading musicians.

"We need reassurance from the Government that youth music will have secure funding and a clear future. Currently it is a lottery."

Notes:

The Music Development Fund, an initiative which provided music education to over 60,000 young people, was abolished by the Assembly Government in 2005. Last week, a report by Estyn praised the success of the MDF and raised serious concerns over the future of youth music in Wales.

Last week, thirty two of Wales's most famous musicians including Bryn Terfel, Karl Jenkins and the Super Fury Animals called for the re-establishment of the Music Development Fund and a Music Manifesto for Wales in order to halt the decline in youth music.

The statement reads:

"The National Assembly for Wales notes:

The success of the Music Development Fund in funding access to music education for over 60'000 young people.

Since the MDF was abolished in 2005 by the Welsh Assembly Government, nearly all local authorities have cut music provision.

That England and Scotland have increased their funding of youth music.

Believes that:

Wales has a proud musical heritage.

Young people should have access to music education regardless of social background or where they live

Youth music should be adequately funded.

That Wales needs a Music Manifesto, to give a national direction to our musical ambitions."