Ed Sheeran launches new music foundation
LONDON –
Ed Sheeran is on a mission to emphasize the importance of music education in schools.
The renowned British singer-songwriter has recently established a foundation with the aim of providing children in the U.K. with access to top-quality music education.
Sheeran’s own journey with music began at a young age, thanks to the encouragement of a teacher. He now wants to help bridge the gap caused by the reduction in arts funding. To kick off the foundation, the Grammy-winning artist is making visits to schools and youth organizations in Cardiff, Coventry, Edinburgh, and Belfast.
During a recent visit to Wales, alongside his songwriting partner Amy Wadge, Sheeran stressed the importance of considering music as a viable career option.
“In Britain, there’s a tendency to steer people towards professions like banking, tech, or finance. We’re here today to show that it’s possible. Both of us came from state school backgrounds, and all it takes is having confidence instilled in you by your teachers,” Sheeran expressed.
Sheeran holds a special connection with Wales, where he once collaborated with Wadge in Cardiff during his teenage years, a pivotal period in his musical journey.
During his visit, Sheeran treated students to a live performance of his hit song “Shape of You” and engaged in musical collaborations with young talents at a Cardiff youth group.
The Ed Sheeran Foundation has already provided support to 18 grassroots music education organizations and state school music departments, benefiting over 12,000 children by improving access to instruments and lessons.
The foundation also aims to champion the crucial role of music teachers and how music can positively impact the lives of young individuals.
Sheeran took to Instagram to express his desire for children to experience the same benefits of music education that he did.
“Music had a profound impact on my mental health as a child, giving me a sense of purpose and achievement, even before I started writing songs. I want kids to have the opportunity to learn instruments, production, songwriting, and performance, with apprenticeship programs helping them acquire various skills to enter the industry,” Sheeran shared.
Highlighting the vast employment opportunities within the music industry beyond just performers, Sheeran noted that his tour alone employs 150 individuals.
A report by UK Music revealed that in 2023, 216,000 individuals were employed in the music industry in the U.K.
