Strong support needed for traditional music in Wales
The strategic review, commissioned by the Arts Council of Wales and led by Angharad Wynne, highlights the need for renewed investment for the traditional music sector in Wales.
Ms Wynne said: "I'm grateful to all of those who generously shared their thoughts, ideas and passion for traditional music with us.
"The review highlighted that the structures in Wales, which once supported the handing down of traditional music skills and tunes, are no longer viable without support and some urgent interventions.
"While much of the review discussions focussed on enlivening grassroots participation, we have understood the traditional music sector in Wales as an ecosystem – each part impacting upon the others.
"The Arts Council of Wales's response to the review findings has been heartening, and the very intelligent ongoing discussions about how best to support this sector flourish and grow are very exciting."
The report, the most comprehensive of its kind in Wales, was managed by Tŷ Cerdd in partnership with Trac Cymru and gathered input from more than 280 contributors.
It describes a sector full of creativity and cultural relevance but lacking the support and investment needed to thrive.
Among the key concerns raised are the need for stronger grassroots provision, especially for young people and intergenerational groups.
The report also calls for expanded opportunities for informal participation at the community level, better integration of traditional music in schools and higher education, clearer development pathways for musicians, and targeted efforts to build audiences.
Dafydd Rhys, chief executive of the Arts Council of Wales, said: "There's huge passion for traditional music in Wales, and the consultation showed a clear need for more coherence, visibility and support.
"In response, we're committing £300,000 for Gwerin this year – a 270 per cent increase on previous dedicated funding pre-Investment Review.
"The majority of which will go into the sector to support delivering activity."
The review forms part of the Arts Council's broader efforts under its 2023 Investment Review to strengthen the cultural sector across Wales.
It also highlights successful models from Scotland, Ireland, and Belgium that could inform future development in Wales.
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