In a statement, the Benavente City Council noted that this new initiative, representing an investment of €300,000, will allow students in the municipality to pursue “both general and artistic education at the same school” for the first time, ensuring “free access to music education without the need for daily travel to conservatories.”

According to the local authority, the investment in the Santarém district covered the setup and adaptation of six rooms dedicated to music instruction, as well as the purchase of instruments and teaching materials.

Benavente Mayor Sónia Ferreira, quoted in the statement, described the project as “rare in Portugal,” noting that it will enable young people to develop their musical talent within the municipality, eliminating the need to travel to other areas.