ISM calls on Cardiff University to reconsider ‘deeply concerning’ cuts

The Independent Society of Musicians (ISM) has called on Cardiff University to reconsider proposals to cut its music programme. The university announced its plans to launch a formal consultation on 28 January, prompting widespread concern among members of the UK music industry.

In its statement Cardiff University confirmed that the proposals have been made to ‘secure the University’s long-term future’ because of its ‘precarious financial position’. Over a 90-day consultation period, the university will consider a proposed reduction of 400 academic staff, and the cessation of subjects including Ancient History, Modern Languages, Music and Nursing. Final plans for approval are expected to be considered by University Council in June 2025.

Cardiff University vice-chancellor Professor Wendy Larner said: ‘We know here at Cardiff University that it is no longer an option for us to continue as we are. Our new strategy, co-created with our community, lays out an ambitious future for our University where it is collaborative, innovative, and delivering value for Cardiff, Wales and the wider world… I want to stress that these are proposals and our final plans will be shaped by our community – both internal and external – through formal consultation. The scale of the challenge will remain, but the way that we address it will certainly be refined and developed over the next 90 days.’

In a letter addressed to president and vice-chancellor Larner, ISM chief executive Deborah Annetts urged the university to rethink its decision, writing that the proposed closure is ‘deeply concerning and disappointing given the University’s location in the Welsh capital city and the strong tradition of musical excellence it represents in “The Land of Song”’.

Annetts added: ‘The closure of the department will result in further reductions in opportunities not only for people to study music at university level but also to work in higher education, which in turn will negatively impact the accessibility and diversity of music programmes across the UK. It reduces the number of institutions in Wales where music is offered at undergraduate level to just four and will undoubtedly lead to talented local young people having to seek courses outside of Wales.’

A petition against the school of music’s closure has been signed by over 21,000 people.