More than a third of youth music projects across the UK are at risk of closure, new figures reveal, as the industry grapples with the loss of spaces critical for discovering and developing emerging talent .
Research released to launch the second year of Youth Music's "Rescue the Roots" campaign found that 37% of grassroots music projects have considered closing due to funding pressures . With over 33,500 young people on waiting lists for creative opportunities, the demand for these spaces far outstrips available provision .
The stakes are significant, say Youth Music – who believe every young person deserves the chance to transform their life through the power of music. 85% of youth music providers report a substantial positive impact on young people's mental health, confidence and life opportunities, and yet many centres are running out of time and money.
"Grassroots music spaces are where young people build community and confidence," explains Isaac Borquaye, the grime artist known as Guvna B, who serves as Youth Music's Co-Chair. "They're where music begins for many artists, but a third of these crucial projects are at risk of closure."
Spotify's Open Doors Fund – now in its second year of partnership with Youth Music – is pne intervention attempting to address the crisis. The initiative has expanded from 15 to 38 supported centres UK-wide and is on track to reach almost 6,000 young people in the coming year.
The first year of the Open Doors Fund supported 137 jobs, including 81 freelance roles, and saw a third of young participants progress into further music-making opportunities . "It's vital for all of us that we support and invest in young people to follow their passions and pursue creative paths," says Kristin Jarrett, Spotify's Social Impact Lead. "Open Doors is the starting point: It's about investing in the community spaces that give young people their first shot at being creative."
"We hope initiatives like this will inspire others to take positive action to protect grassroots music," Borquaye adds.
Earlier this month, 200 young people from partner centres gathered at Spotify's London headquarters for Open Doors Day, an event designed to provide direct access to industry professionals and creative workshops. Attendees participated in sessions including podcasting with Sam Tefera, co-host of Think Twice, songwriting with Joel Baker, and artist listening sessions with Maegan Cottone. The event demonstrates a snapshot of the kind of access and opportunity the fund is designed to protect at scale.
For more information on the Open Doors Fund and Youth Music's "Rescue the Roots" campaign, visit youthmusic.org.uk
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