"The Government’s focus on music as a growth sector can only be positive and we look forward to seeing some of these new measures in action." Photo credit: Shutterstock.
The Government yesterday announced an additional £15 million for its Music Growth Package, meaning £45 million will support more than 2,000 music projects over three years.
The announcement builds on the Creative Industries Sector Plan, which was launched last year, where music was identified as a core area for economic growth.
Backing the UK music industry
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy launched the plan saying:
“Our music sector is one of this country's greatest cultural assets. From The Beatles and the Spice Girls to Charli XCX and Skepta, the UK has produced some of the most era defining artists in the world.
“But music is far more than entertainment… It is also a powerful economic engine, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and driving growth across the country. That's why this Government is backing the music industry with a plan that will help talent thrive, every child be a creator, and ensure the UK remains a global leader for generations to come.”
Action still needed on EU touring, music streaming and AI
MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl was in attendance and says:
“There is much to welcome here, particularly the Music Champion role and the extra money that has been committed to music. The Government’s focus on music as a growth sector can only be positive and we look forward to seeing some of these new measures in action.
“We do, however, still need to see some real progress in areas such as EU touring, music streaming and AI. The upcoming UK-EU summit must be used to negotiate real improvements for UK musicians touring in the EU, as very little progress has been made thus far despite UK Government support.
“On AI we are yet to see any concrete support for creators whose work is being used. The MU is arguing for consent, labelling and fair remuneration. Similarly, whilst we are grateful for government efforts to convene industry meetings on music streaming, we are still a long way from a fair deal for musicians.”
Key measures announced
New announcements include:
- The appointment of Michael Dugher, former CEO of UK Music, as the Government's first Music Champion to strengthen engagement between Government and the music industry and provide a dedicated advocate for the sector.
- At least £12.5 million of dormant assets funding for a Music in Libraries initiative. Library services in England, with partners such as Music Hubs, will be able to apply for the funding to create free studio spaces, recording booths, mixing desks and state-of-the-art equipment.
- At least £10 million of dormant assets funding for a Creative Mentoring scheme, which will give thousands of care experienced children and young people the opportunity to receive in-depth mentoring from creative practitioners, and opportunities to explore creative disciplines such as music, art, film and drama.
- Reforms to the licensing system to help live music and events thrive and promote growth, including increasing the number of Temporary Event Notices (TENs) from 15 to 20 per year and the total event days from 21 to 26, providing greater flexibility, including for live music venues and emerging artists.
- Longer, more secure licences for festivals and other events, with minimum three-year contracts for new events and five-year contracts for existing events.
- Increasing investment in the UK Government’s music trade mission programme by nearly 50%, with the Department for Business and Trade more than doubling its funding to the British Music Embassy at South by Southwest in Austin.