Perth group says 160% rise in music tuition fees would turn kids away

The President of Perth Youth Orchestra believes it would "lead the to the demise of services" if councillors approve plans on Friday

Author: Callum ClarkPublished 3rd Mar 2020

There's fears a major hike in music tuition fees in Perth and Kinross would turn youngsters away from their instrument.

Council officers are proposing a 160% increase in annual charges ahead of Friday's budget day.

A similar increase was proposed last year but was voted down by councillors.

Perth Youth Orchestra President Susannah Rae believes the proposed increase would have a disastrous effect.

"If that were to happen, we think that would lead to the demise of the music service. But we don't think any of the political parties in Perth and Kinross council are going to vote for it," she said.

"We're more concerned if there may be a vote for a smaller increase. We produced postcards which people could send to their councillors to say they didn't want an increase in fees.

"One of the interesting things we found was the number of people who said they were already struggling with fees."

The proposal would hike annual fees from £295 to £776.

Hear all the latest news from across Tayside, Perthshire and Angus on Tay FM. Listen on FM, via our Rayo app, DAB, or smart speaker.