Ed Sheeran Urges Action to Save Grassroots Music

Sheeran’s call to action comes at a crucial time, as the government plans its spending for the next three years. Without immediate intervention, he warns that the UK could face a future with no music in state schools, a shortage of music teachers, and a diminishing number of grassroots venues – the vital spaces where emerging talent finds its first stage.

In his open letter to the government, Sheeran describes the dire state of music education and grassroots venues:

“It is a sad state across the UK. We are at a critical point: a future of no music in state schools, no music teachers to teach, broken instruments and no grassroots venues.

“We have a chance to collectively fight for music education across the UK. The government is planning their spending for the next 3 years. It’s time to let them know that the music industry needs music education.”

Independent Venue Community (IVC), the charitable arm of Independent Venue Week, has long been at the forefront of this fight, working to ensure music remains accessible to communities across the country. For over a decade, the organisation has championed independent venues, recognising their importance not just as performance spaces but as cultural hubs that provide opportunities for new and underserved talent.

“It’s vital we help discover, unlock, and nurture talent around the UK to ensure we have a representative music industry for the future,” says Sybil Bell, Founder and CEO of Independent Venue Week and Independent Venue Community. The charity has been instrumental in fostering music education, advocating for better funding, and supporting the grassroots infrastructure that underpins the live music scene.

Now, Sheeran is asking for the industry’s collective voice in the fight for better music education and venue support. He is calling on people to sign an open letter addressed to the Prime Minister and key government figures, urging them to prioritise music education and the arts in upcoming budget decisions.

How to Get Involved

Sheeran is encouraging industry professionals, educators, and music lovers to:

• Sign the open letter supporting music education and grassroots venues.
• Share the message with colleagues, friends, and fellow music advocates.
• Post on social media using their platforms to amplify the cause.

The deadline for signatures is today (Monday 17th March), as Sheeran and the Independent Venue Community work to ensure that policymakers understand the critical role that music plays in the UK’s cultural and economic landscape.

The Future of Music Depends on Action Now

With grassroots venues under increasing financial pressure and access to music education declining, the UK risks losing its next generation of artists, musicians, and industry professionals. Sheeran’s campaign is a rallying cry for change – a chance for the music industry to come together and protect the future of music in the UK.

To sign the open letter and join the movement, click HERE.