South Lanarkshire Council has proposed budget cuts which include reducing the funding for its instrumental music service. If approved by councillors, 3 full time music teacher positions (15 days tuition per week) will be lost. This will inevitably reduce the number of pupils who can be accepted for music tuition, which in turn is likely to result in fewer opportunities for young people to participate in local authority youth orchestras, bands, choirs and other ensembles. A reduced tuition offering would also restrict availability for pupils wishing to sit SQA music exams in South Lanarkshire as part of their school curriculum.

Independent academic research has proven that children from different social backgrounds receiving instrumental or vocal lessons display heightened literacy, numeracy and social skills. They also gain greater confidence and resilience through their learning. All of these things have a positive impact on young people’s mental health. Improved attainment within more socially-disadvantaged families is important in closing the attainment gap, a key aim of the Scottish Government. Instrumental music tuition is a key part of the solution to give children and young people better opportunities in life.

We urge South Lanarkshire Council to reconsider and withdraw this damaging proposal. Current levels of instrumental and vocal music education must be allowed to continue in all of South Lanarkshire’s schools.