Harps in Schools Programme

Harps in Schools Programme

This programme has been running since February 2020 first in Gwernyfed High School, near Glasbury and now Church in Wales Primary School in Clyro, as well. The programme provides weekly free harp tuition during term time, irrespective of the parent’s financial situation so that we can ensure that any child has the opportunity to play the instrument, unlike most schools where children can only play a musical instrument if their family can pay. In addition, we provide each young person with a starter harp to practice at home and offer a free place at our annual harp summer school. Assuming we are able to continue raising the money to fund this programme our hope is that some young people learning to play the harp in Clyro Primary School will continue when they move to Gwernyfed secondary school aged 11.

Why is this important? If you consider the figures for admissions to Music college or university music courses the majority come from fee paying schools which in Wales represents only 7% of the school pupil population. Hardly surprising when one looks at average income levels in Wales, £28,000 (£35,000 in England), in Powys £26000 and in the South Wales Valleys much lower. Given that since the start of the cost-of-living crisis, which contrary to politicians’ statements, is still with us, people on average Incomes or below in Wales are quite likely to be using food banks to feed their families and the idea of paying for music tuition is completely out of reach.

International research tells us that children who learn to play a musical instrument will increase their academic performance, improve their confidence and enhance their sense of wellbeing all of which will give them a better chance in life. This programme is designed to demonstrate to the world of education that not funding musical education is short sighted and foolish. Thanks to the generosity of some small trusts and individuals we have been able to fund this programme so that the average cost per child is £400 to £500 per child, per year.

Would you like to help? There are two ways you can do so:

1. Make a donation. Go to www.glasburyarts.co.uk /film you will find the donation link under the start of the film box about this programme.

2. If you have a lever harp at home that you no longer use, consider allowing us to have it on an indefinite long-term loan for use in tuition with school pupils, If you would like to discuss this possibility email: johnfitz59@hotmail.com

Thank you for your interest.