During the current economic mess, there is a real danger that music lessons will be seen by education authorities as a soft option to be cut as they try to balance their books. Music can provide kids with an interest for life; it can give them confidence and it is an activity that requires commitment and hard work, but has its own rewards too. It can therefore be character building and go beyond just being a hobby. While some musical instruments are cheaper than they used to be, they can still be beyond the reach of many families, as can paying for private lessons. Musical tuition in schools will open doors for kids that may otherwise remain firmly closed. In addition, if music education is cut, it would take years to build it back up; music teachers would presumably not be waiting around for things to pick up again, and a generation of children will have missed out, with fewer studying music at university, thus creating a downward spiral.
If it comes down to a straight choice, I'd rather have the potholes repaired in the roads.
ReplyDeleteFace up to it, music education is a luxury we maybe can't afford in the current climate.
Anon: I don't agree with that at all. Spending decisions are never made in the way you suggest: music education versus potholes, road sweeping versus libraries, etc.
ReplyDeleteYour argument applies to all the arts: teach reading but don't teach literature, don't teach drawing and painting, don't do drama. Develop a Gradgrindian approach to education.
As for affordability, the government has committed £76,000 million to replace our nuclear weapons systems, so I'd say it's a matter of priorities, not affordability.
It's a worthwhile campaign - good luck and all the best.
ReplyDelete