Where is the Activism in Community Music? A discussion on the relationship between institutions, policy and community music

Description

Community music in the UK is often considered a form of activism due to its association with the community arts movements of the 1960s. However, in recent years, there has been a growing critique of the activist character of community musicians' practices within the UK, particularly due to their dependence on public funding and the institutional systems they had previously challenged. This presentation explores the implications of this reliance on public subsidy on the practices and values of community musicians and, consequently, for the potential activist nature of their work.

Employing a mixed methods approach that includes critical discourse analysis, policy review, and the examination of three music programmes in the UK, this study draws on interviews with 18 musicians and 25 participants to uncover the dynamics between community musicians, funders, and policymakers. It explores how this complex relationship influences community music practices and shapes perceptions of its activist nature. The findings reveal significant power imbalances within funding relationships, a shift away from grassroots methods in programme development and delivery, and the necessity for musicians to use buzzwords to secure financial support. The study raises important questions about the relevance and impact of social and instrumental policy agendas linked to community music activities, considering whether these agendas act as an asset or a hindrance to the values and ethos of community musicians.

Ultimately, it is crucial to assess the ramifications of these relationships on the field of community music, examining its values within the context of 21st-century UK society. Understanding whether community music has transformed into a governmental tool for social impact will empower musicians to advocate effectively for the sustainability of their field and its original mission or take steps to reclaim what has potentially been lost.

Period	22 Apr 2025
Event title	Research in Music Education
Event type	Conference
Conference number	14
Degree of Recognition	International