Understanding socio-economic barriers to classical brass careers

Brass musician and educator Helen Douthwaite-Teasdale is teaming up with tuba player Danielle Price in a project which is exploring how socio-economic background affects and influences pathways to becoming a professional classical brass musician in Scotland.

The initiative is part of a Chamber Music Scotland EDI (Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion) Development Programme, supported by Creative Scotland.

“Brass is known for its accessibility at beginner stages through the thriving network of Scottish brass bands and community groups,” says Helen. “With many of these spaces providing the initial pathways into brass players studying classical music, we aim to get a better understanding of the barriers to further progression for those players as well as socio-economic challenges in developing and maintaining a career as a professional classical musician.”

Helen (above) and Danielle are asking parents and carers of young people learning a brass instrument in P1–S6 across Scotland to get in touch, whether they are just starting out or already playing regularly.

“We are keen to hear from people learning in all different settings, every experience matters, whether the young person has had access to lots of opportunities or faced barriers,” Helen added.

“Please feel free to share this anonymous survey across your networks.”