Report Highlights the Growing Irish Music Industry
Music contributes €703 million a year to the Irish economy – the equivalent of nearly three-quarters of a billion euros – according to a new report from the Irish Music Rights Organisation [IMRO].
Published this week by the IMRO [16.11.2017], The Socio-Economic Contribution of Music to the Irish Economy White Paper sheds further light on Ireland’s thriving music industry, which has also created 13,130 jobs across the country.
The figures have led the non-government body to call for the establishment of a National Music Strategy, which it hopes will maximise the contribution of music while also supporting local musicians and businesses.
Commenting on the report, Eleanor McEvoy, Chairperson of IMRO, said:
“Music is part of our national identity, our psyche, and our way of life. Beyond its important social and reputational contribution, however, music is a vital economic driver – both directly and indirectly.”
She added: “If we are to continue to maintain and grow the success of Ireland’s music industry, and increase its economic and social contribution, now is the time for the development of a National Music Strategy.”
It’s an initiative that should excite all budding musicians and anyone involved with the industry in Ireland. It’s a promising sign for BIMM, where we have been providing the highest quality of music education for over five years.
Giving her thoughts on music’s continued contribution to the economy, and the impact of vocational learning, Dara Kilkenny, BIMM Executive Principal for Dublin/Manchester/Birmingham/Bristol, said:
“I’m delighted that this report is demonstrating the huge strides that are being made in the new Irish music industry by outlining the value, strength and innovation of those involved. Closer collaboration, secure copyright, fairer income, and a solid educational structure in performance and business are essential to continue this growth. More importantly, a national commitment to supporting and developing the unique creativity of Irish artists is imperative.”
She added: “The curriculum we teach at BIMM Dublin reflects this view and has a cross-sector reach, including modules covering techniques, theory, music business, artist development and analytical perspectives, for example. Above all, we endeavour to focus on the value and importance of developing creativity, combined with instilling a sense of entrepreneurialism in our students as they forge ahead and create the new Irish music industry.”
“Additionally, we are fully committed to supporting our students through our Alumni Service which continues to connect our students to industry jobs and opportunities after they graduate, and we are very pleased that our recent graduate survey confirmed that 85% of BIMM Dublin graduates are employed six months after graduating.”
We are elated by the results of this latest report, as are our students. The establishment of a government-led Music Strategy for Ireland will ensure that this country, which has brought us such stars as U2, Sinéad O’Connor, The Script, The Cranberries, and more recently Hozier and Niall Horan, can continue to thrive.
We must never underestimate the power of the creative industry, and these latest figures show the financial benefits of our creative output, as well as being a part of Ireland’s cultural DNA. BIMM remain committed to realising this vision.
