If we are to avoid dance becoming the privilege of a moneyed elite, then funding for education needs to be increased, at least to the levels of music education. But we can’t rely on the Government to plug this gap, says Ian Taylor.
Since time began, one of our most basic instincts is to move to music, as anyone knows who has watched a child when the radio is playing. At a time when childhood obesity is a matter of national concern, we should be embracing this primeval urge for its long-term good. It is good for health and good at engendering the behaviours and disciplines - like teamwork and relationship-building - that are required for success in professional life.
Within this context, the lack of comparative funding for dance education seems wrong. Music education benefited from a £171 million investment in Music Education Hubs across England between 2012 – 2015, and a further £75 million for the coming year. And this is in addition to support provided to youth orchestras and youth music. There isn't the comparable support for dance, either as part of the education system or through the provision of consistent country-wide services. Instead, it is left somewhat to chance, with only children who are lucky enough to live near one of the regional dance organisations who receive funding for youth dance able to benefit... Keep reading on The Independent
Since time began, one of our most basic instincts is to move to music, as anyone knows who has watched a child when the radio is playing. At a time when childhood obesity is a matter of national concern, we should be embracing this primeval urge for its long-term good. It is good for health and good at engendering the behaviours and disciplines - like teamwork and relationship-building - that are required for success in professional life.
Within this context, the lack of comparative funding for dance education seems wrong. Music education benefited from a £171 million investment in Music Education Hubs across England between 2012 – 2015, and a further £75 million for the coming year. And this is in addition to support provided to youth orchestras and youth music. There isn't the comparable support for dance, either as part of the education system or through the provision of consistent country-wide services. Instead, it is left somewhat to chance, with only children who are lucky enough to live near one of the regional dance organisations who receive funding for youth dance able to benefit... Keep reading on The Independent