Just a slight observation here. I also agree that music should be available to all in schools and universities. However, the substance of the argument above is that the cut in subjects like music and art history is as a result of a political stance. I think that's misleading - and I spent over 40 years working in higher education.

As I see it, the lack of support comes from a viewpoint, not necessarily left-wing or right-wing, which sees the arts as of little utilitarian value in the world of work and "getting on". The decline of music in school is mirrored by the scorn of many people for the work of the Arts Council. Waste of money, they call it. I've heard it myself in some sections of university life where getting a degree is seen as more important than getting an education. I've seen the contempt of scientists at Faculty Boards when commenting on the validation of degrees in Social Science. "Hmmph", they snort, "where's the science?"

The whole business stems from people who demand that education must contribute to the material furthering of society in practical, money-making ways. Not education as a liberating broadening of the mind. And I've known people of all political persuasions who believe that - and many of whom believe the opposite.