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Concerns Over Proposals to Suspend School Music Lessons

Ofqual boss Ian Bauckham has suggested that schools might consider emergency timetable changes in response to the Omicron surge, that would see music teachers redeployed to other subjects. We advocate strongly against this idea.

Published: 06 January 2022 | 11:13 AM
Traffic caution sign for school against a bright background with blue sky and green trees.
This is no time to limit the curriculum by cutting statutory subjects like music. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The MU is concerned to read about proposals to suspend school music lessons in order to redeploy music teachers to other subjects. With pupils still catching up after last year’s lengthy school closures, this is no time to limit the curriculum by cutting statutory subjects like music. We will advocate strongly against any suspension of music in schools.

Last year the MU wrote to the new Education Secretary and Schools Minister, urging them to work together to protect music education. You can read the full details in MU National Organiser for Education and Health & Wellbeing, Chris Walters’s blog.

Share the MU’s statement and add your thoughts about the proposal on Twitter and Facebook.

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Cardboard box with mics in and around to capture organic sound for the shoe box scene.

Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film

Musician Janie Price aka Bird has just released her first short film soundtrack ‘Wider Than The Sky’, she’s also been a member of the MU for 24 years. In this guest blog, she shares her journey and advice for other members intrigued by the world of score design and DIY projects.

Published: 15 July 2024

Read more about Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film
Black and white image of Gil sat at a piano in his younger years.

Tribute to Gil Martin

Gilbert Alexander Martin was a successful and highly accomplished pianist, as well as a lifelong member and supporter of the Musician's Union. He passed away on 29 May 2024. This tribute has been provided by Gil’s daughters, Gillian and Susan.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about Tribute to Gil Martin
Sir Kier Starmer Labour leader giving his first speech after winning the general election and becoming prime minister on 5 July.

MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs

Having been so heavily involved in forming Labour policy and the manifesto, we look forward to working with the new Government to implement meaningful change for the country and for musicians.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs
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