Introduction
The podcast is back, after a break – and in this episode, I talk with James McPherson, Managing Director of Music Leaders UK, a new music course and award for secondary school age students. The downturn in numbers of young people pursuing music in schools and other settings is a worrying trend, particularly in the UK. The award aims to address this, by acknowledging learners’ own musical passions and interests while also developing their interpersonal and leadership skills.
You can listen now below, or on Spotify (search for the name) and iTunes or your favourite podcast app.
Listen to the podcast
What’s in this episode?
We talk about:
- who’s behind the course – The Music Works, a Gloucestershire charity
- how the course/award came about – recognising the gap in provision
- how the award can be delivered – how and by who, flexibility of approach
- what students learn – leadership principles, musicianship principles, and delivering an effective music experience
- Music Leaders UK’s long-term vision
Links for this episode
The decline in music GCSE in the UK – article from the ISM
Arts apocalypse in schools – TES (May 2024)
Music data and GCSEs – Sarah Whitfield (May 2024)
TRANSCRIPT: [38] James McPherson, Managing Director of Music Leaders UK
More information, help and resources
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