Music for Youth CEO, Phil Castang, has been awarded an MBE for his services to music education.
In his 25-year career in music education, Phil has been Chair of the Music Education Council, spent eight years as director of Creative Learning & Engagement at Bristol Music Trust (Bristol Beacon), before being appointed CEO of national youth music charity, Music for Youth, in July 2022.
In 2018, Castang founded the National Centre for Inclusive Excellence (NCIE), advocating for musical inclusion at a national level with funding from the national Foundation for Youth Music.
He has worked with Open Up and NOYO to provide ensembles in special schools, and give talented disabled musicians industry support.
In addition to this work, Castang sat on the expert panel advising the DfE and DCMS on the revised National Plan for Music Education.
On the news, Castang says: ‘I am delighted and honoured to receive this award and continue to advocate for the role and value of music education and supporting the next generation of young musicians as CEO at Music for Youth.’
Music for Youth Chair, Margaret Willis, adds: ‘Phil’s award is a richly-deserved recognition of his contribution to music education and his innovative leadership and vision play a vital role in leading Music for Youth as the UK’s national youth music charity.’
