Why is the Education Authority increasing music fees?

The Education Authority is increasing fees due to a budget shortfall of approximately £300 million.

How much will music tuition and instrument hire fees increase by?

Fees for music tuition and instrument hire are set to increase by 10-20% from January 2026.

Will children entitled to free school meals still get free music lessons?

Children entitled to free school meals will receive a 70% discount on music lessons and instrument hire, but will no longer be completely exempt.

Home / Education / Music Fees Rise: Arts Only for the Rich?

Music Fees Rise: Arts Only for the Rich?

11 Dec, 2025

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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.

Music Fees Rise: Arts Only for the Rich?

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.