Sir, Recently the national media highlighted a report from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music indicating a dramatic increase, over the last few years, of the number of children becoming proficient in playing musical instruments.

Nationally, the players, their teachers and their parents can rightly feel a sense of pride and achievement, while the Government can feel a real sense of return on their investment in instrumental teaching provision.

This sense of achievement is certainly justified in Oxfordshire. For over 50 years the County Music Service has provided instruments, skilled teaching in schools together with orchestral and other group experience through the Central and local Music Schools, all contributing to this national surge in proficiency.

Such provision is costly, and, throughout the years, the LEA has generously supported the service. both financially and professionally, recognising a “jewel in the crown”.

However, all local authorities are now financially straitened, and the service may have to seek alternative sources of funding.

Tony Mealing, head of service, and his dedicated teaching staff need every support in maintaining and developing a provision which means so much to so many.

Martin Sheldon

County Music Adviser 1965-81