02/07/2008
Nearly 6 million people in England are involved in amateur arts activities according to a new survey, and music is their biggest passion.
The DCMS report, 'Our Creative Talent: the voluntary and amateur arts in England' recorded more than 11,200 amateur music groups across the country, as well as 5,380 theatre groups and 3,040 dance groups.
There are 49,140 groups in total, ranging from orchestras to book clubs to lace-making groups, with a total of 5.9 million members, plus there are an additional 3.9 million people who volunteer as extras or helpers. The voluntary arts sector generated an income of £543 million in the year 2006/07.
Culture Minister Margaret Hodge said: "For too long there's been a stereotype of amateur arts in England which is clearly long out of date. This research is a landmark - the first of its kind. It shows the sheer size and significance of the voluntary and amateur arts sector. Far from being a poor relation to the professional arts, the sector sustains cultural traditions, encourages innovation, helps develop new audiences, promotes vibrant and inclusive communities and supports the professional sector."
Robin Simpson, Chief Executive of the Voluntary Arts Network said: "The research represents a major symbolic development in the recognition of the scale, value and importance of the voluntary arts sector. Voluntary Arts Network hopes this will be the first step in a developing partnership between government and the voluntary arts to realise the massive potential to encourage, increase and broaden participation in the arts."
Read the full press release