MP Lends Support to Threatened Music Centre
April 3, 2006 3:14 PM
Lorely Burt MP, Cllr Maggie Allen, Cllr Bob Reeves and Alex Taylor
Lorely Burt MP for Solihull has joined the fight to stave off cuts to the Solihull Music Service. Pupil Alex Taylor appealed for her help after the plans to cut 50% of the funding received from Solihull Council were revealed.
In responding to the call for help, Mrs Burt, along with Lib Dem Education Spokesperson Cllr Maggie Allen and Cllr Bob Reeves arranged to visit the centre and lend their support.
During the visit last Friday, Mrs Burt was shown round by eighteen-year-old Alex Taylor. Alex started playing the saxophone aged 9 at Sharman's Cross Junior and is in his final year a Solihull Sixth Form College, playing in the Solihull Wind Ensemble.
Alex said: "To hit a service that is so successful and valuable for young people is like sending a message out to children that the Council isn't bothered."
After the visit Cllr Bob Reeves commented that: "Playing an instrument gives confidence to young people, encourages them to stay in school, to cooperate with others and to develop teamwork."
Cllr Maggie Allen added, "Over 1000 youngsters benefit from Solihull Music Service, with 900 playing in ensembles and 660 receiving lessons. If the subsidy is cut, forcing some fees up by 50% to nearly £150 per term, then the danger is the number of children taking part will decline. This will inevitably lead to reductions in the quality and range of services on offer, and would be a disaster for Solihull schools and Solihull children."
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