Young people across Falkirk will be inspired to channel their inner Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran after the local authority secured more than £360,000 in musical funding.

As part of a new, two-year funding commitment, Falkirk Council has been handed the financial boost thanks to Creative Scotland's Youth Music Initiative Formula Fund. The award is to be split into £180,867 for 2026/27 and £180,867 for 2027/28 and will support the council’s ongoing young person’s music programme.

Reaching, on average, 2500 young people and children across the Falkirk area every single week, the initiative offers support through musical activities in early learning centres and primary schools, as well as additional support needs settings.

The cash boost will support a range of musical development opportunities, including early years music sessions, school choirs, whole-class instrumental learning, nurture sessions, traditional music tuition, and support for school performances.

It’s hoped that Falkirk Council’s Youth Music Initiative will continue to build confidence in youngsters, inspire creativity and lead to a lifelong enjoyment of music.

Over the next two years, the funding boost will allow the council to further strengthen and develop its nationally recognised traditional music programme.

Some of the upcoming expansion plans include growing traditional music outreach from 13 to 20 primary schools, resulting in all primary schools in the local area having access to high-standard tuition and musical instruments.

Falkirk Council leader Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn said: “This funding is fantastic news for children and young people across Falkirk. Music has the power to inspire, build confidence and bring communities together, and our Youth Music Initiative continues to make a real difference to thousands of young people every week.”