Struggling Music Schools in Saxony: AfD Proposes Doubling Budget for Relief
Far-right political party, AfD, advocates for increased funding towards music schools. - Far-right party AfD advocates for increased funding for music schools
The Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) is driving negotiations to secure a significant boost in funding for music schools in Saxony during discussions for the 2025-2026 double budget. The faction has put forward an application for a doubling of funds, roughly totaling 15.7 million euros per year, according to their announcement.
Government support is critical, as reported in the "Sächsische Zeitung," as one music school, Saxon Switzerland, urgently requires an extraordinary subsidy of 300,000 euros to stay operational. Parents already feel the pinch due to increased fees, with plans for another hike in August. A weekly half-hour piano lesson now costs 68 euros per month.
Thomas Kirste, a local MP, expresses concern over the rising costs, arguing that "many parents in the Meißen district have recently experienced a real cost shock. The music school fees for their children are now only manageable for affluent families. It's essential we provide a chance for all children to learn an instrument." He suggests that reducing expenditure on "ideological cultural projects" could help bridge the funding gap.
Music schools in Saxony are under profound financial pressure, largely due to the Herrenberg ruling by the Federal Social Court. This ruling requires music schools to employ their teaching staff under social security obligations, leading to a substantial increase in costs. Many of these schools face imminent existential threats.
The AfD's proposed budget increase seeks to alleviate the financial burden and avoid further tuition hikes, ensuring better infrastructure and resources for students. Alternative funding methods, cost-cutting measures, scholarships, financial aid, community engagement, and efficient utilization of resources could provide additional solutions to secure the future of these vital cultural institutions.
- The AfD is advocating for a community policy that doubles the budget for music schools in Saxony, which currently faces financial pressure due to increased costs from the Herrenberg ruling.
- In light of the rising costs, politicians like Thomas Kirste are calling for a shift in priority from ideological cultural projects to vocational training and education-and-self-development, highlighting the need for all children to have access to vocational training in music.
- As the AfD's proposed budget increase for music schools moves through policy-and-legislation, broader solutions could include learning strategies such as scholarships, financial aid, and vocational training programs that promote efficiency and general-news about the sustainability of these vital cultural institutions.
