Some 'Catters who are involved with youth projects, policy development, etc. might be interested in the research that Sound Sense is undertaking. I quote:


"The Music Map is Sound Sense's new research project looking at how young people learn and make music outside formal education. To help Sound Sense to develop the full research brief, we are currently undertaking a consultation process with stakeholders young and old. Having consulted with young people in November and December, Sound Sense's next step is to consult with adults. On Saturday 19 February we will bring together researchers, funders, policy makers, support organisations and practitioners to discuss appropriate methodologies, strategies for inclusion, and research priorities. As part of this event Sound Sense will be presenting and discussing the results of the young people's consultation events. Clare Adams, our development officer is leading The Music Map work and would like to hear from anyone who would like to find out more or who is interested in participating in the development day on 19 February."

I've written wearing my 'official' hat** because I'm worried that 'trad' will be left off the map because it isn't 'on the radar' of most young people to begin with, thanks to Media and mainstream Education prejudices. I've suggested a few projects which they should look at; there should be a good number of 'Catters who can provide pointers to examples of both good and bad practice.

Yes - all this number crunching can be very bad for the soul but sometimes we just have to bite the bullet ... ! If 'trad' gets left out of a government-funded study, we could suffer the consequences for a long time to come. Having said that, government might still come up with completely counter-intuitive (i.e. 'just plain daft') legislation but at least we'll be in there arguing our corner.

siân, west wales

** OK - it's only studying England but I'm taking a 'collegiate' approach!