The recent ban placed upon music education activities in regional schools and communities has hit hard with music educators, principals and students.
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What began with a question about singing and woodwind playing has now seen a blanket ban imposed on all music education activities only this week by NSW Health and the NSW Dept of Education under COVID-19 guidelines.
Orange Regional Conservatorium director Donna Riles said it had been the ban was making it tough for children.
"Students are feeling devastated that while they can attend school, their regular music programs have been put on hold," Mrs Riles raid.
"Music plays such a vital role enhancing and strengthening school culture.
"The enjoyment that music brings to the lives of children through difficult times like these is immeasurable."
Ms Riles said the conservatorium had also been hard-hit by the bans.
"Conservatorium music tutors and conductors are also deeply affected by these sudden changes," she said.
"Whether undertaking the role as choir or band conductor, K-6 classroom music specialist, piano accompanist, HSC music support or as a professional player, their employment and engagement with students has been interrupted."
As a former HSC Music Performance Exam Marker, Mrs Riles was concerned music students already reeling under the changes to their final exams - imposed on them by examining bodies - are now wrestling with how to present their performances without players and singers to join them.
Orange Regional Conservatorium delivers music programs to over 1000 students in 17 district schools.
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