Music is a modern priority

The opportunity to play an instrument should almost be considered a human right for all children but, as every parent knows, it is not that easy. It requires an instrument, insurance for it and lessons – none of which is cheap. Music can easily become a privilege of the wealthy not accessible to those with faltering bank accounts. One way to even things out is for schools to take an active role in offering pupils the means to learn. The education system, however, quite wrongly, considers music a non-priority subject.

There is, however, an alternative to going private. France has many co-operative music schools (associations run by volunteers). Collectively-owned instruments are loaned to students; cheaper group lessons can be arranged; and children are encouraged to perform with their peers from early on so they get used to playing in public. Which is the whole point: music is to be shared for the pleasure of all.