By using the knowledge and evidence gathered from our activities, training programmes and relationships with over 2,500 members and regional and national decision makers, we continue to inform and improve the music education sector.
We have been developing a body of research over the last seven years with much of this work conducted in partnership with members across London and the South East. Projects in the past have included significant contribution to the Music Manifesto. Sound Connections sat on two of the main ‘reference’ groups that discussed cross sector coordination and workforce development. During this same period Sound Connections also became involved with the Music Education Council (MEC), the National Association of Music Educators (NAME) and the National Music Council (NMC).
Out of our work with the Music Manifesto Sound Connections also helped develop ‘How’s your music heart?’ which was designed to aid the development of local music Hubs. This builds upon the work that had already been started on how community music organisations could engage with the emerging Local Authority Music Plans (LAMPS).
In 2009 we published a series of nine case studies to illustrate and celebrate the hugely diverse and innovative range of work that we support through the YMAZ. These stories encapsulate how community based organisations support young people and not only include the successes but also honestly draw attention to the difficulties of delivering any ‘real’ project. It is hoped that the case studies will offer practical learning points and experiences that might offer insight to others considering or actively involved in developing the potential of young people through music.
Current projects include working closely with the nine recent YMAZ partnership projects to explore similar strategic areas of their practice. We are also working with Arts Inform and the Association of British Orchestras on a project that focuses on work related learning opportunities for young people and will culminate in a public seminar in the autumn.
One of our key aims is to see those setting policy, funding and commissioning music opportunities for young people have a better understanding of the challenges and reality of delivery. This relates to participatory projects, how involving young people are involved in the planning of project and how the workforce development is best prepared to deliver. In order to achieve this we will continue our work with key regional and national fora and initiatives.
If you have an idea for a research project and would like to discuss this further please contact Nicky Pleming, Participatory Projects & Youth Voice Manager on 020 7729 7220 or email nicky@sound-connections.org.uk
