Release Date 24 June 2013

What value do music, the arts and culture have in today's society? How key is the relationship between music, culture and education? Managing Director of Classic FM Darren Henley and University of Reading Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell will take to the stage to discuss these and other arts and culture issues on Wednesday 26 June.

The evening offers the rare opportunity to listen and take part in ‘a conversation' with leading lights from the worlds of music and education, who will put arts and culture under the spotlight at an important time.

Darren Henley OBE is the Managing Director of Global Radio's national classical music station, Classic FM.  He has advised ministers in successive governments about music and cultural education, writing two major independent reviews for the Department for Education and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Darren said: "The arts have the power to change people's lives, opening up a whole new world of possibilities. Their importance in British life, particularly in these economically challenging times, has never been greater. I'm really looking forward to visiting the University of Reading and examining the issues with Sir David, as well as hearing the audience's view on the direction arts and culture is taking and where it might lead us in the future."

The University of Reading has a rich cultural heritage, from training Turner prize-nominated artists and screening the best of world cinema, to hosting concerts of all music genres and holding collections of national importance in its archive and museums, and this month launched its inaugural celebration of arts and culture. This event is one of many open to the public during June.

Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: "Arts and culture are vital parts of our everyday life. They bring us enjoyment, stir the imagination and inspire us to create and learn. It is fitting that during our celebration we will hear from a key figure from the arts world. Darren's work with government and role at Classic FM means he is perfectly placed to answer a broad selection questions on the arts and education. It promises to be a fascinating and special evening."

Vice-Chancellor in conversation with... Darren Henley takes place on Wednesday 26 June at 7.30 in the Minghella Building, Whiteknights Campus, University of Reading. Admission is free, but places are limited. To book a place, please contact us:events@reading.ac.uk | 0118 378 4313

ENDS