Saddened by news of cuts (From South Wales Argus)

Saddened by news of cuts

12:59pm Thursday 3rd January 2013 in Letters

AS a grateful beneficiary of the music services back in the 50s I was saddened to read about Newport’s proposed cuts to its contribution to the Gwent Music Service.

Do councillors have any idea of the role music services have played in the cultural life of South Wales? In the 1940s Monmouthshire and Glamorgan became world leaders in enabling young people to experience instrumental playing at the highest levels, and many former members of county orchestras have gone on to achieve great things professionally. But even more importantly we should recognise that music making has been a force for good in the lives of the many others who had no such ambitions. Those in charge of public affairs must be made to appreciate that our county youth orchestras are no less than jewels in the cultural life of our nation.

Dedicated staff, tutors and conductors are still spurring youngsters on to high levels of achievement and we must admire these wonderful examples of commitment, discipline, and skill on the part of all concerned. The provision of music tuition must not be perceived as an elitist pursuit .

It should be regarded as an essential part of our social fabric and available to all regardless of their ability to pay. All credit to the South Wales Argus for giving such a prominence to this serious threat to our music services.

John Watkins Llwyncelyn Blackwood