Task and Finish Group on Participation in the Arts in Wales

Inquiry into Participation in the Arts in Wales

Response from Jazz Heritage Wales, Swansea

1. What organisation do you represent?

JAZZ HERITAGE WALES, SWANSEA

2. Which groups of people participate in your organisation’s arts activities?

18-90 Primary and Secondary Schoolchildren

3. Do you think that budget changes have affected participation in the arts, either positively or negatively?

We have experienced 6 funding rejections during 2011 and have been unable to tour our BEFORE FREEDOM show to schools. During 2010, 1055 participated. Since then - 0.

4. Do you think that certain groups of people have been affected more than others?

As we work across the board, all our groups have been affected. We have no paid staff.

5. Are there gaps in provision for people to participate in arts activities, either demographically or geographically?

We need funding to pay musicians and voice coaches. Work has ground to a halt and we rely on volunteers.

6. Are there enough funding sources available other than the Arts Council for Wales? Are alternative funding sources accessible?

Very little. The "private sector" is non-existent regarding funding for the arts.... especially where "jazz music" is concerned. We have traced the origins of "jazz" to 1820s, encompassing social history, politics, performance and community participation.

7. What role does the voluntary arts sector play in promoting participation in the arts in Wales and how can this be supported?

We are ALL volunteers at Jazz Heritage Wales.

8. Is the strategic relationship between the Welsh Government and the bodies that distribute arts funding effective in increasing participation?

The Arts Council of Wales are very supportive of us, but they have a limited budget and ex exist through their small project schemes, and through Swansea Council for Voluntary Service small grants.

9. All public bodies in Wales will have published a strategic equality plan by April 2012. Do you think that these new public sector equality duties will help to increase participation in the arts among under-represented groups in Wales?

I've been reading Strategic Plans since the mid-1970s....