14.04.2023: UK Music Chief Executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin has welcomed news that the BBC is looking at other options to planned job cuts to the Corporation’s world-famous orchestras.

The BBC announced on Thursday (April 13) that it wanted to “explore alternatives to the proposed 20% post closures in the English Orchestras”.  You can read the Corporation’s full statement here.

Responding to the news, UK Music Chief Executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin said: 

“It’s welcome news that the BBC is now exploring alternatives to the proposed jobs cut to the BBC orchestras.

“This is testament to the campaigning and hard work of organisations and individuals across the sector.

“I am also grateful to Lorna Clarke (BBC Director of Music) and Simon Webb (BBC Head of Orchestras and Choirs) for recognising the strength of opposition to these proposals, and taking steps to now engage the sector in conversation about what the way forward looks like.

“While on the face of it this is good news, the reality is that the classical music sector faces huge challenges.

“Covid, Brexit, inflation, high energy costs and changing audience demographics have created a perfect storm that presents huge challenges to the sector.

“In this current environment it’s more important than ever that the sector works constructively with the BBC & other stakeholders to work toward solutions that protect the long-term future of our classical music sector, which brings joy to millions & is part of our cultural fabric.”