The Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha is calling for all children to be given a free musical instrument and lessons to support them in their recovery from the pandemic.
Adding his voice to the many organisations, teachers, and charities calling for music education to be prioritised as young people emerge from the pandemic, Zaha highlights the emotional benefits of music.
Growing up in south London, the footballer told The Times that he would have liked to study music at school if he had been given the chance.
He said: ‘Now more than ever we need to support children. They’ve had it tougher than most over the last year. Music can bring so much joy to so many and enabling more children to have access to instruments and teaching can only benefit them.’
The Incorporated Society of Musicians has praised Zaha’s call, saying on Twitter: ‘We agree with Wilfried Zaha that all children should have access to a music education and music must be part of the COVID-19 recovery curriculum.’
In the tweet, the ISM also asked Zaha’s talent agency, Roc Nation, to contact them so that they can help with the campaign.
Help Musicians also tweeted, thanking Zaha for ‘recognising the value that music brings to enrich all our lives.’
US Roc Nation talent agency also represents Marcus Rashford, whose call for free school meals brought about change, and Maro Itoje, who put pressure on the government to provide children with laptops.
Restore the Music UK, led by CEO Polly Moore, gives grants ranging from £10,000 to £20,000 to schools so that their students can access instruments and music tuition. The charity believes that ‘Music isn’t a “nice to have”. It’s a vital skill – practical, technical, creative and fun.’
