We the undersigned petition the Principal and the Senior Management
Team at RUTC to re-think the proposal to cease the provision of
individual instrumental lessons. We are past students of RUTC and
strongly feel that the provision of music lessons, and music in
general, is a fundamental aspect of a successful and enjoyable
college education.
As well as being integral to the achievement of good grades at A
level and Btec, instrumental ability enhances student
enthusiasm ,motivation, discipline, confidence and imbues the student
with a sense of fun.
It has been proven that learning a musical instrument enhances the
memory and thus aids educational achievements in other areas.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/6447588/Playing-a-
musical-instrument-makes-you-brainier.html
Richmond, Twickenham and it's surrounding area has a long history of
association with music and many talented young musicians have taken
instrumental lessons at RUTC. These musicians have gone onto become
talented professionals in their chosen fields, and all are proud of
their association with the college. We believe that the college
should be proud of them too.
It is our position that ceasing music lessons will severely hamper
the potential that some young people discover within themselves, as
they change academic environments, come to college and begin to
realise and manifest their path in adulthood.
In addition, instrumental ability is a fundamental aspect of certain
courses at RUTC. Students are assessed and given grades on aspects
such as fluency, technique, harmony and improvisation. How are
students expected to develop these areas without instrumental
lessons? Surely by ceasing lessons the college is limiting students
chances of achieving their potential.
We therefore strongly urge the Principal, senior management and
governors of RUTC to rethink the plans to end instrumental music
lessons.
Signed