ABO and ISM express concern about BBC cuts

Both the Independent Society of Musicians (ISM) and the Association of British Orchestras (ABO) have issued responses to the BBC’s announcement, earlier this week, of changes to its classical music strategy. The broadcaster’s new plan will involve cuts including the disbandment of choral ensemble BBC Singers and a 20% cut to staff in its English orchestras.

In a statement released on Tuesday the ISM responds said the cuts will have ‘a devastating impact on their ensembles and musicians’, while the ABO described the reduction in staff as ‘of great concern.’

ISM chief executive Deborah Annetts said ‘It is difficult to see how this strategy is well thought out. Taking away jobs from singers and orchestral musicians is deeply destructive in these already difficult times when much of the music sector and those working in it are struggling for survival… All these decisions fly in the face of the Government’s commitment to put the creative industries at the heart of economic growth in this country.’

The ABO’s statement points out ‘a steady decline in public investment in the arts and cultural education. Seeing the biggest single employer of musicians in the country make such a reduction in salaried positions is therefore particularly acute in its impact.’

Annetts called on the BBC to consult with the ISM on both these cuts and on its plans around music education. The BBC has confirmed its aim to double its funding for music education, promising a major new ‘education offer’ in autumn with details yet to be announced.

The ABO stated that it welcomes the BBC’s ‘doubling of funding for music education and plans to launch new training initiatives and opportunities for people to engage with classical music.’ It also welcomes the BBC ‘bolstering its digital offering, widening access and building future audiences.’