I appeared as a guest on BBC politics East, where we discussed the importance of music education for children and young people, in the context of school budget cuts.

The government’s proposed funding of £79 million a year for music education falls short, as especially in rural areas, this money will need to go much further.

Music is also very special for Norwich as a city, worth more than £22 million annually to the city through music tourism.

Music also provides children with creativity, cognitive skills and various mental health benefits. We should not overlook the importance of adequately funding this education across the UK.

Read about my experience at Sistema Norwich, where I saw the benefits of music education first hand.

Watch the rest of my appearance on BBC politics east, as we discuss East-West Rail along with local elections.