Moray SNP welcomes free music lessons
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Moray's SNP representatives have welcomed Scottish Government funding that will allow local children to learn a musical instrument without having to pay fees.
Richard Lochhead, Moray's MSP, said: "The SNP Government is determined that Scotland be the best place to grow up and that all young people should have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
"Moray’s schools have a proud record of nurturing musical talent.
"I hope that the removal of fees will give more young people the chance to learn a musical instrument and nurture their talents.
"I’m also pleased to see that funding has been put in place to allow the removal of charges for practical classes such as home economics.
"This is an important step in the right direction as we look to reduce the cost of the school day.
"I know this is something that will be welcomed by families across Moray."
The Scottish Government has today announced £7million in funding so that councils across Scotland do not have to charge music tuition fees.
A further £6million will allow local authorities to remove fees for home economics and other practical courses.
Both commitments were part of the SNP’s 100 days plan and the manifesto during the 2021 elections.
Councillor Sonya Warren, chair of Moray Council’s Education Committee, said: "The value of learning music is well recognised and it should not be limited by cost and affordability to our young people.
"I really welcome the extra funding from the Scottish Government to allow this to happen – until now we’ve had to balance the desire to promote music tuition with other pressures on council budgets.
"This funding will go a long way to delivering equity of provision in music lessons.
"I also welcome the fact that there will be further talks between the Scottish Government and local authorities to develop a sustainable model of music tuition and future funding."
Councillor Shona Morrison (Fochabers/Lhanbryde, SNP) said: "By delivering on this manifesto commitment, the Scottish Government has removed the financial barrier depriving many of our young people from accessing this valuable resource.
"It is widely acknowledged that the learning of a musical instrument can greatly enhance well-being, create positive outcomes and provide a range of future pathways for the learner.
"I’m delighted these opportunities will now be available to all regardless of their ability to pay.
"Moray has provided us with countless outstanding musicians over the years and this promises an even brighter future for Moray’s cultural and music scene."
Related article: Music tuition fees abolished in Moray and across Scotland
