*
banner

A dangerous and ill thought through proposal

Councils in Scotland are reportedly looking at making cuts that could directly affect the teaching of music and free music tuition in schools.

Money
  The cuts are being reported in a number of council budgets in Scotland

It has been reported by both 'The Scotsman' newspaper and the 'Times Educational Supplement' that Midlothian Council in Scotland has put forward plans to cut free instrumental teaching.

It has been stated that the decision will affect pupils who are not taking Scottish Qualifications Authority exams such as Highers of National 5s in music as part of a plan that would see overall education budget savings of £520,000.

If agreed by the full council, it has been reported that it would save the council £444,000 a year with 8.8 full time job equivalents withdrawn.

Protesters

Protesters believe that the decision would be contrary to a Scottish Government pledge to make music lessons free for all.

One of those is Alastair Orr, an instrumental music instructor with over 30 years of experience.

He has long campaigned for the protection of instrumental music and vocal tuition in schools. He described Midlothian Council's proposal as "a dangerous and ill-thought-through proposal".

He added: "If implemented, this would see only those pupils sitting [Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)] music examinations receiving music tuition.

Running the music service this way — just for those sitting SQA exams — would choke off those receiving tuition in primary schools and in early secondary. Effectively, over time, allowing the service to die."

Within funding

In its proposal, Midlothian Council stated: "As a result of a Scottish government and [local authorities' body] Cosla agreement, no charging fees for children learning a musical instrument was introduced academic session 2021-22.

The proposal is to operate an instrumental music service within the funding provided by the Scottish government; this will equate to £206,000."

However, protesters such as Mr Orr feel that this funding — which amounts to £8 million for the current academic year — was meant to cover fees charged to families, not the whole cost of delivering the music service.

They are now said to be beginning to mobilise to oppose the plans which could result in the most extreme proposals being revised or cancelled. It was stated that "if councils are flying a kite, it needs to be metaphorically shot down".

Running the music service this way — just for those sitting SQA exams — would choke off those receiving tuition in primary schools and in early secondary. Effectively, over time, allowing the service to dieAlastair Orr

Council cuts

The cuts being considered by Midlothian follow the news that Glasgow City Council is reportedly also looking at saving proposals that could result in teaching jobs in saving £51 million.

Scotland's First minister Nicola Sturgeon has been asked about some of the cuts being considered by councils and stated that this was, "the time of year when we hear lots of reports about the savings options that different councils are considering"and added that, "very often, those proposals do not proceed."

Unthinkable

Meanwhile the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES) said there was, "no doubt that the scale of financial savings is unprecedented and follows year-on-year cuts over the last ten-year period.

Councils are now considering what was previously unthinkable, such as shortening the school week or reducing teacher numbers."

School Leaders Scotland general secretary Jim Thewliss also said, "some of the things we are starting to hear discussed now have never been discussed before".

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Dutch Youth

Dutch Youth shine under Antrobus and Hutchinson

August 23 • The second Dutch National Youth Band course was a great success under the direction of its inspiring musical leaders.


Bandamonium

Bandamonium set for Yorkshire

August 23 • After the success of its fourth edition in Devon the fantastic community extravaganza is set to take place in Yorkshire in September.


BrookWright Music

BrookWright Music: O Little One Sweet (J.S Bach arr. Andrew Wainwright)

August 23 • Bring a classy touch of Bach to your concert programmes with this charming little lullaby carol.


Skelmersdale

New MD and player influx at Skelmersdale

August 23 • They have been packing the ranks and the rostrum at Skelmersdale Band.


Cheltenham Silver Band - Brass (and percussion) and Beer

Friday 22 August • St. Barnabas Church Hall, Orchard Way, Cheltenham, GL51 7JY GL51 7JY


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Uckfield Concert Brass - Eastbourne Bandstand 1812 Concert

Wednesday 27 August • Eastbourne Bandstand, Lower Grand Parade, Eastbourne. BN21 3AD


Cheltenham Silver Band - Brass (and percussion) and Beer

Friday 29 August • St. Barnabas Church Hall, Orchard Way, Cheltenham, GL51 7JY GL51 7JY


wantage silver band

August 22 • Wantage Community Brass (non-competitive) are looking to recruit a new Musical Director. The group is unique in that the average age is almost certainly around 70! They rehearse on Tue from 4pm and Thu from 7pm (both times flexible depending on person).


Lydbrook Band

August 20 • Bass Trombone


Regent Brass

August 20 • Regent Brass (Championship Section) seek Bass Trombone, Eb/Bb Bass & Percussion. Shortlisted for 4barsrest Lower Section Band of the Year 2024, we have a balanced schedule of innovative concerts & contests, regularly premiering new music.


Stephen Phillips

MA, BA (Homs), PQSI, NPQH, PGCE
Conductor, Band Trainer, Educator, Compere


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd