Mapping the musical mind: the link between musical and language processing

Researchers in Japan have found a specific link between musical processing and areas of the brain associated with language processing for the first time.

The role of arts and cultural programmes on young people’s mental health and wellbeing – a research digest

The latest research digest from the Centre for Cultural Value explores the role of arts and cultural programmes on young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Music for Education & Wellbeing Podcast – with Rachael Perrin, co-founder of Soundcastle

Anita Holford, co-editor of Music Education Works, talks with Rachael Perrin, a co-founder of community music organisation, Soundcastle, about wanting to find ‘other uses for music’; their work with families and adults on a journey of mental health recovery; and the crossovers between coaching, mentoring and community music.

Music education scheme a success in Dundee

Researchers from the University of Dundee have evaluated the impact of the Big Noise Douglas (BND) programme in the city and found that ‘BND is having positive impacts on children, families and the community’.

Music for education & wellbeing podcast – with Annabel Williams, vocal coach and vocalist

Anita Holford, co-editor of Music Education Works, is talking with Annabel Williams, head vocal coach for the X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent.

EIGHT WAYS THAT MUSIC CAN SUPPORT YOUNG PEOPLE’S WELLBEING AND LEARNING: IN ‘CATCH UP’ AND BEYOND

Anita Holford, co-editor of Music Education Works, looks at eight ways music can support young people’s wellbeing and learning.

Pre-school children who can keep a beat are more likely to be better readers and talkers

This research on why beat synchronisation and language processing and reading skills are connected can only strengthen music education teaching and advocacy.

Advocacy – music in schools latest news & campaigns

[LATEST UPDATE: 27/1/2022] This post featuring the latest news and reports on music education and music education advocacy will be updated each time we add news and campaigns about music in schools in the UK. Please comment below if there’s anything you think we need to add.

The benefits of music – collected articles and blogs from other sources

Following are a range of articles about the benefits of listening to and making music at all ages and stages of our lives. Most of

Music for education & wellbeing podcast – with JB Rose, recording artist, vocal tutor and singing vegan mum

Anita Holford, co-editor of Music Education Works, talks with JB Rose who is a soul vocalist, recording artist, and vocal tutor at three charities.

Music lessons enhance executive functions in 6- to 7-year-old children

Researchers in Germany have found that instrumental music lessons have an impact on specific executive functions in children.

Can a rhythmic intervention support reading development in poor readers?

Professor Susan Hallam’s research found that regular beat-based music making sessions can improve the reading skills of 11-12 year-olds.