A new report published by The State of The Arts shows a dire situation of arts funding across the UK. The report points out the ‘catastrophic declines’ in participation and enrolment in arts subjects in state schools.
Published by the Campaign of the Arts and The University of Warwick, the figures set out in The State of The Arts indicate lowest levels of government spending on arts and culture among European countries. While Germany, France and Finland have increased their culture budgets by 22%, 25% and 70% respectively, UK has had it cut down by 6% since 2010.
The research is based on official statistics from 2010 to 2023. The data gives us a picture of the ‘health of arts as it considers funding, provision, education and employment towards arts sector. The final results to the investigation will be announced in the House of Lords to arts leaders and politicians. ‘It serves as a stark warning and a call to action for policymakers, stakeholders and the public’, point out the authors, including Jack Gamble, director of the Campaign for the Arts and Dr Heidi Ashton, lead researcher at The University of Warwick.
Alarming state of music education in UK schools
What’s most concerning is the state of music in schools. Engagement with the subject has fallen by 26% in English state schools. While entries for GCSE music were reduced by 41%, and A-Level entries are down by 46%. Higher education is also facing a setback. This may have further increased due to the segregation of arts subjects and other ‘strategically important’ subjects in the UK along with a 50% cut in “high-cost subject” funding. And on top of this, as per the report, earnings for those in cultural education are below the poverty line.
BBC funds have reduced by 23% – why the music sector needs to worry
Although the report gives us an idea about the arts and culture of UK as a whole. There are particular reasons for the music industry to worry. The BBC is the single largest company employing musicians in the UK as well as the main commissioner of new music. BBC also produces BBC proms and other such events supporting musicians. BBC has seen its public and grant funding decrease by 23%.
Between 2018 and 2023, the percentage decrease in the number of music, theatre, dance and comedy events is a staggering 23%. This suggest post pandemic arts scene in the UK is still recovering. Nevertheless, the music sector still has hope. Going to live music events, ballet, opera theatre or any music related event was still a popular choice, only second to going for movies.
‘This report underscores the need for better and more balanced support to ensure the vitality and accessibility of the arts for everyone, across all parts of the UK’, write the authors. Ashton added to this: ‘The decade-long declines presented in the report represent a lack of support in all areas, from funding to education to employment, so what is required is a fundamental shift in our thinking about the role of the arts in society. This report has provided a benchmark and information to inform decisions for a more equitable future.’
