As the new editor of MT, I'd like to say how pleased I am to be serving the multitude of disciplines, talents and organisations that make up UK music education. It has been many years since I was in front of a class, but having worked in music education publishing ever since, I feel I know this patch and can relate to those who keep it fed and watered (sometimes against the odds). I hope this term has started well, and that I'll get to know many more of MT's readers in the coming months.
On another personal note, I'd like to acknowledge the impressive editorship of Harriet Richards, my predecessor, and to thank both her and Hattie Fisk in the editorial office for their generous support while I learn new ropes.
The main focus of this month's issue is early years. Emma Hutchinson discusses the potential for collaboration and skill sharing in early years settings; The Family Music Hub, led by Rosie Adediran, Nicola Burke and Katie Neilson, updates us on this initiative's activities and the current landscape; and Sonia Foster outlines the importance of multisensory play for children, parents and teachers alike. We also learn of an exciting digital resource for early years, with music and dance, from Becky West of Orchestras Live.
This month's other features provide an in-depth look at the London Youth Choirs, which proudly celebrates its first decade; a discussion of the growing market for pop piano, by Karen Marshall, with a fresh look at how pieces can be taught; a dive into two new projects funded by Arts Council England; and a report – with context – on the recent House of Lords debate on the National Plan for Music Education, from experts from the Birmingham Music Education Research Group. Most KS3 teachers, I'm sure, will also welcome Dice Wood's advice on managing their workload via ingenious digital short-cuts and other time-saving measures.
This being Music & Drama Expo month, the head of content for Music Harriet Richards shares her top picks, and MT interviews Jim Pinchen ahead of his session on how music eduction is supporting displaced children and their host communities.
Elsewhere, there are reviews of ABRSM's Teacher Hub and Trinity's new graded exam books for flute and clarinet, and of an example of digital app-based learning that has one reviewer hooked. Regular columns include an invitation to instrumental teachers to engage with ISM's annual fees survey, for the benefit of all, and a Q&A with a teacher of the D/deaf/F and Big Band trumpet player who shares personal and professional insights on teaching and being ambitious.
As ever at MT, we welcome your feedback. Please feel free to send letters to the editor or contact the team at music.teacher@markallengroup.com.
I look forward to meeting many of you at the Expo (23 and 24 February) and also celebrating with you at the Music and Drama Education Awards (23 February).
- Phil Croydon, editor
