Campaign strikes a chord with Benedetti
Violinist backs fight against school instruments charges
Classical violinist Nicola Benedetti has thrown her support behind a campaign against musical instrument charges in schools.
The 29- year- old has pledged her backing and has been joined by Julian Lloyd Webber.
It comes as former council chief Ralph Riddiough slammed his old bosses for introducing the fees.
Mr Riddiough, legal head at South Ayrshire until last month, said the move has left some parents “wracked with worry”.
Councillors agreed to make parents fork out £ 200 for their first child’s tuition.
The move, rubber stamped in March’s budget, will charge £ 100 for a second child, with subsequent children free.
Mr Riddiough, a voluntary music teacher, has now launched a petition demanding a rethink.
Ayrshire composer Sir James McMillan, another backer of the campaign, insisted the move was an example of “prejudice”.
Mr Riddiough, 43, told the Post: “Instruments are like a treasure in the hands of our children.
“You only have to look at the outstanding success of the Ayrshire Music Festival.
“But it is only that way because there are no barriers to children playing at an early age.
“For some parents, the payment of £ 200 may as well be £ 2000.
“And all the evidence shows that access to musical instruments improves learning.
“This decision must be reversed.”
The council will save £ 46,000 by introducing the cuts after the school summer holidays.
Some exemptions will include children on free school meals and those studying the instrument is an “integral part” of their music course.
A council spokesman said: “The charge of £ 200 per school year – which is lower than the national average – applies to the first child in a family and is reduced or free for additional children.
“We understand that this is a significant change for parents and carers and would ask anyone with specific queries to contact our Instrumental Music Service.”
To sign the petition, visit www. change. org and search for “South Ayrshire Music Charges.