The new hub to give children access to music education

A new center is to be established in Black Country to provide access to music education for children.

The Black Country Music Hub will be one of 43 taking part in the national scheme organized by Arts Council England.

Dudley Council said it would work with council-run music services in Walsall and Wolverhampton and the not-for-profit SIPS Music and Education service in Sandwell.

Using £1.9m of government funding, the authority said it would invest in new tools, equipment and technology.

The money will also support school orchestra lessons, where all children and young people in a class can learn to play an instrument.

The Hubs were originally created in 2012 to give young people access to education, allowing them to learn instruments and develop their talents.

Brian Cape, chief executive of SIPS Education, said he welcomed the news, which gave the Black Country “a strong voice on the national stage”.

Ciaran O’Donnell, Head of Music at Wolverhampton City Council, added: “I’m delighted that our collective bid has been successful.

“This will provide continuity of funding and ensure our local schools that the services they receive from the music service can continue.

“Being part of something bigger in the Black Country opens up great potential to develop even wider and stronger partnerships for the benefit of our children.”

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