Does classical music undermine the arts funding argument?
When making a case for the economic contribution of the arts, you’re better off not including classical music, says Owen Spottiswoode.
In these straitened times, the arts need to make a case for the economic value they bring to the country, regardless of their artistic worth. So says culture secretary Maria Miller, who told luminaries from the arts world in April: ‘I need you all to accept this fundamental premise, and work with me to develop the argument.’
The Arts Council has seemingly picked up this gauntlet, claiming in a report released the following month that the arts sector contributes £7 to the economy for every £1 of subsidy it receives from the taxpayer. Even if we leave aside the fact that we can’t say with any certainty that these subsidies are causing higher returns, is this good news for those hoping to see more government money directed towards classical music specifically? Not necessarily.
In these straitened times, the arts need to make a case for the economic value they bring to the country, regardless of their artistic worth. So says culture secretary Maria Miller, who told luminaries from the arts world in April: ‘I need you all to accept this fundamental premise, and work with me to develop the argument.’
The Arts Council has seemingly picked up this gauntlet, claiming in a report released the following month that the arts sector contributes £7 to the economy for every £1 of subsidy it receives from the taxpayer. Even if we leave aside the fact that we can’t say with any certainty that these subsidies are causing higher returns, is this good news for those hoping to see more government money directed towards classical music specifically? Not necessarily.