Review of Musical Instruments for Bands Scheme

Having considered PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Review of Musical Instruments for Bands Scheme, the Arts Council agreed the recommendation at its Council meeting of June 22 nd 2006 to re-introduce a Musical Instruments for Bands Scheme on the following bases:

• The scheme should be operated as a deadlined programme – once per year
• The annual budget should be set at £150,000
• The maximum available grant would be £5,000
• Bands in receipt of funds during the period of the previous programme (2002-2004) should not be eligible to apply
• Successful applications must include provision of broader life-long learning opportunities irrespective of age
• Quality of artistic activity and/or potential for reputable competition success should remain a key factor in any successful application
• Partnership funding should remain at 25% of the total project costs
• Increased monitoring of instrument purchase
• Geographic areas that have not received substantial funding under this scheme would be prioritised

The Arts Council hopes to launch the scheme in October 2006