New research commissioned by the Royal College of Music has found a strong link between music education and the development of key workplace skills. According to Music Mark, a UK-based organization supporting music education, business leaders highly value the skills fostered through music participation.
The report, which surveyed 2,000 UK adults and 302 business leaders, found that music was ranked first across five of seven key competency areas, including creativity and innovation, teamwork and collaboration, adaptability and flexibility, communication skills, and time management. These skills are increasingly sought after by employers in rapidly changing work environments. Nine in ten business leaders also reported that music helps them concentrate at work, while seven in ten believe music-based wellbeing initiatives would benefit staff.
The findings come at a time when access to music education in schools is facing challenges. While employers recognize the confidence, discipline, listening skills, and resilience that music cultivates, parents were less likely to encourage their children to study music. This disconnect highlights a potential gap between industry needs and parental perceptions of music’s role in education.
Music Mark emphasizes that high-quality music education provides opportunities for students to collaborate, solve problems, express ideas, build confidence, and experience the value of practice. The research underscores the need for sustained investment, partnerships, and a commitment to ensuring equitable access to music education for all children and young people.
For more information, visit musicmark.org.uk.