Surge in Shirebrook students learning music during lockdown

The school has seen a significant increase in the number of year seven pupils wanting to learn a musical instrument this year, with 50 new starters boosting the total number of students taking lessons this year to 80, with more on the waiting list.

The uptake is in defiance of national trends, with a study from the British Phonograph Industry last year reporting a 21 per cent decrease in music lesson availability in state schools over the previous five years.

However, Adam Case, head of arts, says that the combination of being in lockdown and seeing music being performed on online platforms such as YouTube and TikTok, as well as TV, has inspired students to learn how to play an instrument themselves.

He added that for many students, being able to learn and play music may be a way for them to maintain a healthy outlook during lockdown.

He said: “Music has always been a big part of Shirebrook and we recognise that now, more than ever, young people need the creative arts, so the fact that the number of students who have asked to learn an instrument has doubled is really welcome.

“Learning an instrument is an excellent way to support wellbeing and mental health, as well as offering students the means to process the complex emotions that they may be experiencing as a result of coronavirus.”

He added that while guitar has proven to be the most popular, there has been a huge uptake in woodwind and violin – with the school’s music teachers now working at maximum capacity.

Among the music students at Shirebrook is River Hopkins, who this year became something of a YouTube sensation when his song about Mansfield went viral.

Mr Case said: “It is really promising to think that there’s a new generation of potential musicians and artists, who are beginning to emerge in these uncertain times.

“River joined the school four years ago and showed an amazing talent for music and guitar and has improved exponentially over the years.

"He is a great asset to the school and we expect big things from him.”