The Music Learning Collective (MLC) and the University of Derby (UoD) are delighted to announce an exciting new partnership aimed at transforming music education and creating dynamic opportunities for students, educators, and the wider community.
This collaboration combines MLC’s innovative approaches to music education with the UoD’s academic excellence to shape a future where opportunities for local communities can evolve and thrive.
A Shared Vision for Growth and Opportunity
The partnership will focus on fostering a participatory and experiential learning environment that not only enhances academic programmes but also creates pathways for career advancement and cultural exchange. Together, the MLC and UoD will deliver an ambitious plan spanning the next decade, with key milestones in two, five, and ten years.
Highlights of the Partnership
Over the next two years, the partnership will focus on launching MLC’s Explore the Creative Industries pathway for diverse groups, developing school partnerships, and providing employment and training opportunities for UoD graduates. By the five-year mark, the collaboration will expand to include new MLC programmes like their Creative Practitioner and Little Beats, deliver joint research projects, and scale MLC’s presence across the region to boost employability and offer pathways to UoD qualifications. Within ten years, the partnership aims to adapt programs based on their research findings, integrating the arts into STEM (to create STEAM) pathways and encourage lifelong learning throughout the region.
Transforming Communities and Industries
This partnership represents a shared commitment to regional growth, fostering innovation, inclusion, and sustainability in music education. By engaging with local authorities, schools, and community organisations, the MLC and UoD aim to drive cultural vibrancy and economic benefits while enhancing graduate employability and professional development.
Dr Daithí McMahon, Associate Professor and Interim Head of Discipline for Film & Performance in the School of Arts, University of Derby commented:
"This is just the beginning of what will be a fantastic partnership between our two organisations. We look forward to having real impact for people of all ages through education, research and professional development using music as a central pillar.
By engaging with local authorities, schools, and community organisations MLC and the University of Derby will foster inclusion in the arts, widen access to higher education and drive economic growth and career opportunities in the creative industries.”
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Simon Brown, Director of Education at the MLC, added:
"This partnership between the MLC and the University of Derby is a significant step in realising our mission to make music education accessible, inclusive, and truly innovative. Together, we can encourage the next generation of musicians and those that aspire to make a sustainable living from within the creative industries to fulfil their ambitions."
Join the Journey
For more information about the partnership and upcoming initiatives, please visit musiclearningcollective.com or derby.ac.uk.
About the Music Learning Collective (MLC)
The Music Learning Collective is dedicated to providing accessible, inclusive, and dynamic music education. With a focus on experiential learning and community engagement, MLC empowers individuals to reach their full potential in the creative industries.
About the University of Derby (UoD)
The University of Derby is a modern institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and civic engagement. The UoD is committed to transforming lives and communities through education and research.
