Classrooms at 108 public schools and preschools will be filled with music, after being granted a share in about $275,000 to deliver quality music education programs in South Australia.

The successful applicants will use the funding to purchase instruments, strengthen music programs and engage musicians and music organisations.

Among the recipients are Melaleuca Park Primary School who were granted $17,000 to invest in musical equipment and instruments, Salisbury Downs Primary School who received $8,000 for a program expanding access to musical education through percussion, and Napperby Primary School who received $2,400 for xylophones.

This round has a strong focus on the early years of a child’s education, with 100 grants going to preschools and primary schools.

This is the sixth round of the Music Innovation Fund, an initiative of the state’s Music Education Strategy which recommends that music – which includes singing, playing a musical instrument, songwriting or composing – should be part of students’ regular learning, rather than a special activity.

Department for Education Chief Executive Professor Martin Westwell said, Music plays a pivotal role in the overall development of our students and young people to encourage creativity, critical thinking and emotional intelligence.

"Starting quality music education early and continuing to deliver music learning opportunities provides benefits throughout a child’s school life and beyond. Music can help children to connect and feel a sense of belonging".

"I’m pleased to see so many of our schools and preschools are committing to bring quality music education to their classrooms", said Professor Westwell.

More than $1.5 million has been allocated to 368 government schools and preschools and 11 external music-related organisations since the initiative began in 2020.

In 2024, the State Government announced it was committing $7.5 million in funding towards expanding music education in schools over the next three years.

A full list of the round 6 recipients for the Music Innovation Fund is available on the Department for Education website.