The benefits of learning a musical instrument (click for YouTube link)

Having spent most of my working life in music (either performing or within education), whilst also being involved with the formation of various orchestras (youth, adult, amateur and professional) and a variety of musical charities around the country to widen access to the benefits of learning and playing a musical instrument for all in the community, now entering the 'retirement' years of my life, I want to devote much of my spare time to further widen such opportunities for all. Indeed, as the attached YouTube link demonstrates so well, learning an instrument actually brings far wider benefits for the development of everyone that it must not be looked upon as simply an activity for 'the privileged few', but should be an opportunity made available for everyone - starting at school! Please support this petition to get free instrumental lessons back on the curriculum for all school children, so that generations to come (whether they continue to pursue music or not) can experience the unique benefits that music can bring to life and their wider development... Thank you!

Malcolm Goodman MBE ARCM