Sir, – I wholeheartedly agree with Grace Tallon (“Music education must be available to every child regardless of geography and class”, Opinion, August 18th).
As principal of a Deis band primary school, I can attest to the benefits of music education for our pupils.
In 2018, my school, along with our senior school, became part of the School of Excellence Initiative funded by the Department of Education and Skills. Our project is entitled Music Making Matters.
A significant investment was made to purchase violins, ukuleles, keyboards, and percussion instruments with a view to developing the instrumental musical skills of teachers and pupils alike.
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However, the department funds the initiative for three years only. This short-term approach does not acknowledge the time it takes to develop the skills Grace Tallon refers to. We now face the very real prospect of a wonderful project failing for the want of finance and sponsorship.
Are our children to be denied the opportunity to “develop sensitivity, discipline and endurance”, as recognised by Dr Shinichi Suzuki?
Surely everyone deserves the opportunity to access the beauty and benefits of music? – Yours, etc,
ÁINE KIRWAN,
Corduff,
Dublin 15.