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Music Fees Rise: Arts Only for the Rich?
11 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Education Authority to increase music tuition fees by 10-20%.
- Nearly 13,000 pupils use the EA music service annually.
- Children entitled to free meals will still face a 70% discount.
A significant increase in music tuition and instrument hire fees, ranging from 10% to 20%, is scheduled by the Education Authority (EA) from January 2026. This proposed rise has drawn sharp criticism from school principals, who fear it will make music education a luxury accessible only to the affluent.
The EA cites a £300 million budget shortfall as the reason for these austerity measures, which also include potential fare cuts for school transport and increased school dinner prices. The music service, currently utilized by nearly 13,000 pupils, will see charges for peripatetic tuition and instrument hire rise, affecting both primary and post-primary schools.
Principals argue that the arts are crucial for child development and educational success, not mere luxuries. They express concern over the additional financial strain on families, especially those in disadvantaged areas. While pupils entitled to free school meals will still receive a substantial 70% discount, they will no longer be exempt from charges.
