Newlands School takes part in nationwide instrument amnesty

Don’t Stop the Music

Newlands School in Middleton is taking part in a nationwide instrument amnesty – Don’t Stop the Music – headed by internationally-renowned classical pianist James Rhodes.

Newlands School Headteacher Deborah Rogers said: “I thought it would be a good idea to get involved so the children could feel the vibrations of different types of instruments. We have the basic school instruments here like recorders and drums and things so I thought if we could get a few different instruments, the children could feel what it was like to play a variety of instruments.”

The instrument amnesty coincides with a new two-part Channel 4 series – Don’t Stop The Music – which follows James Rhodes as he trials the amnesty in a primary school in Basildon, investigates the issues, gathers allies and gears up to go nationwide. In his view, children are missing out, not just on one of life’s great pleasures, but on an activity proven to improve behaviour, creativity, teamwork and even basic literacy and numeracy skills.

James Rhodes said: “Music saved my life. It's that powerful. We must give every child the opportunity to learn a musical instrument. Young children have a hunger and thirst to learn music that is simply not being met. When the government introduced its National Plan for Music, I had high hopes that music education in this country would give every child, from every background, the opportunity to learn an instrument. But it remains a lottery; it is inconsistent and often poorly provided for.”

Deborah Rogers added: “We aren’t involved with the TV side of the amnesty. We got an email about the idea and then I replied with why we should be considered and I think we are only one of two schools in the borough of Rochdale to be involved.”

The children at Newlands experience a range of Special Educational Needs and are very enthusiastic about music. This year they are making creative development a priority area, so the instrument amnesty is a great opportunity to boost the experiences on offer.

“We haven’t received any instruments yet but I know the children are looking forward to trying a few out. We are also trying to do some more work with Rochdale Music Service in addition to having a music residency with Live Music Now! North West. It certainly promises to be a musical school year,” added Deborah.