We, the students, are deeply affected by the recent decision to remove the music course from Oxford Brookes University curriculum. This decision not only impacts the music students but also threatens to diminish a vital part of our university culture.

The music department is more than just an academic division; it is a key element of our university and home to non-music students who participate in societies and music groups. Its removal would mean stripping away opportunities for cultural enrichment, personal growth, and community bonding.

Participation in arts courses such as music contributes significantly towards students' mental well-being and we believe that this decision was made without considering its profound impact on students' lives and their holistic development. We urge Oxford Brookes University's administration not only to reconsider this decision but also recognise the importance of maintaining diversity in the course it offers for future generations.

Please join us in preserving the richness of our educational experience at Oxford Brookes University by signing this petition against removing the music course from our curriculum.

*UPDATE* (5th January 2024)

Thank you all for your support! So far, we have not had a response from the university and the situation has not changed. Please keep sharing the petition. In the meantime, you can also support the music programme at Brookes by:

1. following @savemusicatbrookes on Instagram for updates and information
2. Write to your MP and ask them to oppose the course closures and cuts at Oxford Brookes. You can find your MP here: https://members.parliament.uk/findyourmp
3. Write to the university management, especially Vice-Chancellor Alistair Fitt (afitt@brookes.ac.uk) and the Board of Governors (via rashley-sparks@brookes.ac.uk). Ask them to give the Music team time to finish redeveloping the Music programmes and explain to them how you are personally affected by the closure, and why Oxford Brookes, the city of Oxford and music education locally and nationally need this music programme."

Please feel free to email savemusicatbrookes@gmail.com if you would like more ideas or support!