Ed Sheeran demands £250 million for music education from Keir Starmer
- Ed Sheeran, along with over 600 artists, has written to Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging increased funding for music education.
- The letter calls for a £250 million investment and an additional 1,000 music teachers due to declining provisions in schools.
- The artists emphasize the importance of music education, citing it as essential for nurturing future talent and the UK music industry's economic impact.
In March 2025, Ed Sheeran, joined by over 600 musicians, including notable stars like Harry Styles and Elton John, wrote to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling for urgent investment in music education. This appeal specifically sought £250 million to fund 1,000 more music teachers and to address the decline in music provision within state schools, which currently educate 93% of the nation's children. Sheeran emphasized that learning to play an instrument is increasingly becoming a luxury that not all children can afford, highlighting societal issues that stem from a lack of music education access. The letter was prompted by concerning trends such as a 21% decrease in music programs at state schools in recent years, as well as proposals to close respected university music departments, like the one at Cardiff University. Sheeran and his fellow signatories argue that this decline in resources threatens the future of creativity and musical excellence in the UK. As figures suggest that the music industry contributes £7.6 billion to the UK's economy, the letter pointed out that neglecting music education could jeopardize this economic pillar. Citing recent performances at the Brit Awards, where artists called on the industry to protect its roots, Sheeran expressed a need for action to reverse the trend of diminishing music education. Ezra Collective, a prominent jazz act, emphasized the importance of community support in nurturing young musical talent, indicating that a robust music education system is vital for sustaining future generations of artists. The broader implications of this letter indicate a desire not just to repair past damage but to build a resilient framework for future music education that fosters inclusivity and diversity. It suggests that without immediate government intervention, the evolving landscape of UK music may continue to decline, resulting in a less vibrant cultural scene. The signatories of the letter collectively stress the importance of safeguarding music education for all children, asserting that access limits the creative potentials of future generations. Sheeran has also engaged in charitable efforts aimed at promoting music education, demonstrating his commitment to this cause.