South Coast Music Partnership has been granted £1.6m by the Department for Education to pioneer a new expanded Music Hub.

Leading this assignment appointed by the Arts Council England are Southampton City Council, Southampton & Isle of Wight Music, SoundStorm and Portsmouth Music Service.

Commencing in September 2024, the national programme aims to offer all children and young people superior music education.

From this substantial investment, £1.2m will coordinate music training activities and an additional £400,000 will be spent on new musical instruments, equipment, and technology.

These advancements are designed to accommodate the ambitions and needs of the young populace of the region, giving special attention to those with special educational needs and disabilities.

The strategic initiative by South Coast Music Partnership will bring accessible music education of high quality to all youngsters in the region.

The new Hub intends to capitalise on the individual records of success maintained by the Portsmouth Music Hub, SoundStorm, and Southampton/Isle of Wight Music Hub as separate entities and collaborative partners.

Kath Page, Southampton and Isle of Wight music manager said: "This is a huge achievement for the consortium and for the team in Southampton. We are thrilled to be working in partnership with the other local authority regions.

"This provides us with a unique opportunity to further the fantastic work already done by the existing music hubs, providing the everyday and the exceptional experiences for children and young people across the south coast region.

"We have a strong track record of working together and are delighted to continue this legacy, maximizing opportunity and financial support for music education in the region."

Derek Wiles, divisional head of education and learning, said: "This announcement is great news for the children and young people of Southampton who will continue to benefit from the life-changing power of music!

"Having a Music Hub which works so closely with schools, partners, and families to provide high-quality, inspirational and inclusive music opportunities is a great demonstration of the council's commitment to giving all young people a good start in life, helping them to be happy and healthy, and to achieve and learn."