Like many, I am waiting for the further guidance on music in schools with some trepidation. Music is an endangered species and I fear that ‘guidance’ on what is allowed / isn’t allowed could threaten the very existence in our schools.

For many children, music clubs are place they make life-long friends and the spark ignited for future passions and vocations. If large ensembles aren’t allowed, it will take years to build them back up when they are allowed again.

Extra-curricular music ensembles must be mixed age groups. This is imperative in schools where there are fewer musical students. Please let each school decide what is right for their context using distancing rules to guide them.

If a school has a big enough space and can place the students carefully (following scientific advice on social distancing) then a number shouldn’t be placed on how many can be in an ensemble.

Please don’t let Covid 19 take away our children’s childhood. Music is a gift and must be protected at all costs.