Live Music

Baroness Anelay of St Johns Excerpts

Thursday 2nd July 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Anelay of St Johns (Con)]

My Lords, I will focus on the cultural importance of live music, which can enrich the lives of us all. The response to the noble Lord, Lord Brennan, shows that there is feeling around the House on just that. It supports artistic expression, preserves musical heritage and strengthens communities. Live events showcase artists from different backgrounds and cultures, promoting inclusion and cultural exchange.

Does the Minister agree that charities are vital in protecting and promoting opportunities to take part in producing live music or simply to enjoy it? Charities such as the LIVE Trust raises funds via voluntary ticket contributions to fund grass-roots music events and venues. Music for All provides grants and instruments to disadvantaged communities to ensure that everyone has the chance to participate in and experience live music. Youth Music invests in hundreds of grass-roots music projects, helping marginalised young people to learn about music production, singing and live performance.

Government can play a role in supporting the development of live music. In creating the Every Child Can fund for 2024-28, the Government pledged that they would work with the National Lottery Community Fund, young people and youth organisations to ensure that the monies would be spent in a way that reflected the priorities of young people to make, perform and produce music. What assessment have the Government made of the progress that has been achieved over the past two years by the Every Child Can fund”?