ABO films show the arts as ‘national treasures’

Two short films celebrating the role of the arts in everyday life are aiming to raise public awareness of the arts and the value of arts funding. The Association of British Orchestras’ 90-second video focuses on the work of British orchestras in films, games, TV and radio shows, and rock and pop groups. It is accompanied by a report, Making Everyday Life Special, which describes collaborations involving British orchestras. Some of the world’s most successful films, such as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones, and Lawrence of Arabia, were recorded by British orchestras; top UK and international bands and artists, including Kylie Minogue, Ray Davies and the Pet Shop Boys have worked with them; and they feature in soundtracks for console and mobile games such as Candy Crush and Harry Potter, as well as the anthem for the UEFA Champions League. The report concludes that this track record of success, in exports, job creation and tourism, rests on public investment in the UK’s orchestras, which allows them to retain and support the best players.

Read more on the Arts Professional website