MUSIC lessons for children in Pembrokeshire are likely to rise by up to £4 an hour and transport to county-level ensemble practices will cease to be free, instead costing around £60 per pupil, per term.

The increases are due to cuts in funding for the Pembrokeshire County Council Music Service, which must save £75,000 in the financial year 2015 – 2016.

Last year, the service was tasked with saving an identical amount of money.

This was achieved through re-timetabling, reduction of travel time and costs, and reduction of staffing levels. Music lesson provision and student participation were unaffected.

A report regarding next year’s savings came before the Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Monday.

The report claimed that at present the next round of cuts was “not anticipated” to affect the delivery of the service, the level of pupil participation, or pupil access to music provision.

The department currently employs 10 full-time music teachers, 11 part-time teachers, a head of the music service and a full-time administrator.

Each week, 2,500 pupils receive an individual or small group lesson on an instrument or are coached in singing.

Addressing the committee, County Music Co-ordinator Chris Llewellyn said music was “an integral part of our county’s identity” which “contributed to the all-round performance and well-being of pupils”.

He highlighted recent successes of local young musicians, including the brass band which won a national schools competition and was due to perform at London’s Albert Hall.

“We are so proud of what young people in Pembrokeshire can achieve,” said Mr Llewellyn.

Councillor Myles Pepper said he felt it was important for the committee to “keep an eye” on the effect the proposed rise in prices for music lessons may have.

Cllr Reg Owens agreed, saying the music service was a “jewel in the crown” of Pembrokeshire education and deserved to be protected.