We are particularly encouraged by the Government’s commitment to widening access to arts and culture across the country, on the 60th anniversary of former Minister Jennie Lee’s first White Paper and her vision of the ‘arts for everyone, everywhere’.

We are delighted to see today’s announcement of additional funding for four cultural education programmes. The ABO champions access to high-quality music education and creative subjects for all children and young people, including through our recently launched #AnOrchestraInEverySchool initiative.

Judith Webster, Chief Executive, ABO, said: “Today’s announcement highlights the socio-economic importance of the UK cultural sector, and the clear value of investing in culture. UK orchestras are a celebrated part of this growth-driving sector, bringing joy and connection to millions in concert halls at home and abroad, and making a real impact on people’s lives in education and local community settings across the UK. We stand ready to work with the Culture Secretary in delivering on her pledge to make arts and culture accessible to everyone, everywhere.”

With a recent Opinium survey showing that 74% of people believe that orchestras are a vital part of the country’s cultural heritage, and seven in ten of UK adults believing that music is an important part of their wellbeing, it is vital that UK Government continues to invest in the UK orchestral sector.

In the lead up to the Government’s Spring Spending Review, we urge the Chancellor to build on the investment announced today, by safeguarding core investment in UK culture; investing in creative education; committing regional investment to support local venues and the wider cultural ecology; and boosting sector growth through enhancing the effectiveness of cultural tax reliefs.