Musicians are urging the Government to separate music from sport within the Economic Development portfolio, and create a dedicated 'music champion' role.
The Government has today published a 'Music Manifesto' – a £9,651.77 report produced by creative industry consultants summarising the views of the music community on how the scene could be improved.
The document explained: “The music manifesto is a rallying cry for islanders, politicians, decision-makers, music lovers and practitioners to join together in support of the music scene.”
In October, the Government enlisted an independent music consultant to collaborate with musicians and other stakeholders to create an initial draft of the manifesto.
It was produced in partnership by the Tom Fleming Creative Consultancy, which was also behind the £16,000 Situation Analysis and Options Appraisal for Jersey Opera House document and and the ‘Arts Strategy for Jersey’ which was published in 2021.
The final publication sets out a wishlist for the music sector.
The manifesto called for more music spaces including a multi-purpose venue that could act as a creative hub, as well as rehearsal rooms, studios and performance spaces elsewhere in the island.
The document also highlighted the need for investment in music education, a dedicated music therapy programme in hospitals and schools, more local music courses, and a music apprenticeship scheme to provide students with professional experience.
Pictured: The manifesto called for more music spaces, including a multi-purpose venue that could act as a creative hub.
The music community also asked for an annual, multi-genre Festival of Music as well as reform and review of the island’s entertainment regulations to make it easier and more accessible for venues and other public spaces to host music events.
It comes after the current "anachronistic" legislation governing public events was recently extended for a further three years.
However, the Economic Development Minister pledged to update the regulations before his term ends in 2026, and that the extension will allow officers sufficient time to develop a new law.
Deputy Kirsten Morel said this will streamline the process of organising events and create an efficient and effective regulatory environment that is easier for organisers to navigate.
To read the music manifesto in full, click HERE.
'Music manifesto' seeks input from local musicians
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