Wind in our sails: December 2023 Editorial

At the time of writing, schools minister Nick Gibb has stepped down as part of a government reshuffle, and the ISM has repeated its call for a pause to the Music Hubs Investment Programme and restructure. Given the lack of rationale for the restructure, the uncertainty around if hubs are indeed underperforming (based on a response from Gibb), and the ‘do more for less’ approach highlighted by Ally Daubney and others, this would seem like a good opportunity. We shall see.

Meanwhile, the shortlist for the 2024 Music & Drama Education Awards has been published. Congratulations to all the worthy organisations and individuals listed for their tireless commitment to the cause. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 22 February 2024 at the London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square.

This month's MT has a brass and woodwind focus, explored in features, profiles and reviews. Clarissa Payne explores the work of celebrated flautist Rosanna Ter-Berg, who describes her struggle with not sounding French enough and other ‘norms’ of the classical circuit. (We enjoyed choosing the photo for this one! Such a free spirit.) And clarinettist Chris Walters brings a historical perspective to the embouchure, describing the research and lifetime's work of a pioneering dentist. I recommend, also, our interview with Sarah Burnett for learning about a new Young Bassoon Programme at the RCM.

On the brass side of things, Richard Steggall provides invaluable advice for teachers covering the French horn, and he makes a compelling case for including the instrument in group teaching. If by ‘horn’, on the other hand, you picture ‘horn sections’ or ‘jazz horns’, and like your players in cool hats, then you're in good company with South African-born jazz trumpeter Claude Deppa. An ambassador on several fronts, Deppa happens to co-direct Kinetika Bloco, the carnival band who have been rocking south London, Glastonbury and are developing new leaders. Note, also, our review of RSL's syllabuses for ‘horns’.

Elsewhere this month, Liz Dunbar makes a welcome return, sharing curriculum tips and examples for listening and analysing at KS3, and Tolu McCarthy explains the secrets to running a successful singing assembly – for readers (singers or otherwise) at any career stage. We also hear from Ethan Loch, one year on from being a finalist at BBC Young Musician, who discusses, with Kate Rounding, his performing, studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and adaptive technology. Ethan's story, humour and sense of what's important are inspiring.

If you haven't done so already, remember to check out the programme for next year's Music & Drama Education Expo, noting that entry for delegates is free. We hope to see many of you there.

Finally, enjoy the festive season! Here's wishing you all a happy new year.

- Phil Croydon, editor