Introducing Caro Cooke: A Journey Towards Inclusive Music Education
The Music Education Council (MEC) is delighted to welcome Caro Cooke as a new trustee. A passionate advocate for accessibility in the arts, Caro’s journey—from learning the cello to pioneering inclusive DJ workshops—has shaped her commitment to broadening music education beyond traditional models.
In this blog, Caro shares insights into their experiences, the challenges of inclusivity in music education, and the need to embrace diverse musical forms. They also explore how we can create a more accessible, engaging, and representative future for all learners.
Read below
I am honoured to join the Music Education Council (MEC) as a trustee. As 2025 starts, this feels like an opportune moment to reflect on the path that has led me here and to share my insights into my dedication to inclusive music education.
I was raised in a household where music was not merely a pastime, but an integral part of daily life. I began learning the cello at an early age, fostering a deep appreciation for music. However, the traditional education system did not always feel like an inclusive environment. My later diagnosis of autism and ADHD provided clarity about the challenges I faced during my academic journey. Despite these difficulties, I pursued higher education, earning a degree in music, followed by a master’s in Arts Administration and Cultural Policy.
My postgraduate studies broadened my perspective, prompting a keen interest in the frameworks of arts organisations and how they could better serve diverse communities. This interest motivated me to take on roles within arts administration and, more recently, to undertake a research project examining the intersection of DJing and disability. Through this project, I explored the potential of DJing as a means of empowerment and inclusion. Concurrently, I developed my own DJ practice and led workshops designed to share these skills with others.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been teaching. I have conducted DJ workshops in pupil referral units and collaborated with organisations such as Noise Academy, focusing on making music education more accessible and relevant. These experiences have reinforced my conviction that traditional approaches to music education often fail to reflect the lived experiences of many students, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds.
A key driver of my work is the desire to challenge the conventional emphasis on Western classical music within education. While classical music holds significant value, there exists an expansive and diverse musical landscape—from electronic music to drill—that resonates strongly with young people today. These genres are frequently dismissed or stigmatised, despite their innovation and cultural significance. For instance, DJing demands a comprehensive understanding of music structure, rhythm, and key changes—skills that are equally as intricate as those involved in classical music performance. By embracing diverse musical forms, we can create a more inclusive and engaging educational experience.
Joining MEC as a trustee represents a natural progression in my work. The council’s commitment to fostering inclusivity within music education aligns closely with my personal and professional aspirations. Although I am still in the early stages of my role, I am enthusiastic about the initiatives we are pursuing, particularly those centred on critical topics such as disability, race, artificial intelligence, and health. These themes are not merely contemporary discussions; they are essential considerations for the evolution of music education.
Looking ahead, I am particularly inspired by MEC’s focus on seminars and lectures that foster dialogue and the exchange of ideas. The emphasis on intersectionality and inclusion over the past year has been invaluable, and I look forward to building on this foundation. Progress in this field is not about concluding conversations but about continuously learning, adapting, and evolving.
My ultimate aspiration is to contribute to the creation of a music education system that values all forms of musical expression equally. Music, as a universal language, has the capacity to connect, heal, and inspire. While my journey in music education has been deeply personal, I am confident that the insights I have gained can resonate widely and support meaningful change.
I am excited to be part of the MEC community and to play a role in shaping a more inclusive future for music education.
留言