Is gender really so instrumental?

3:50pm Wednesday 23rd April 2008

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MOST parent's heart will sink when their teenager says: "I want to learn the electric guitar."

But according to a report by the Institute of Education, you're much more likely to suffer such pains if you're parenting a boy.

The study of children across England and Wales shows that many instruments are learnt in schools overwhelmingly by either one sex or the other.

Redbridge is no different, with nine out of ten tubas lugged around by boys, and 80 per cent of high-pitched, compact flutes banging around in the satchels of girls.

But since September some of the barriers have started falling, with classes tackling instruments together as part of the Wider Opportunities Programme run by Redbridge Music Service.

At Bancroft's school in Woodford Green the stereotypes are definitely being challenged. Inthujan Thankarajah, 12, has been playing the flute for four years and was encouraged to take it up because it was unusual for boys.

He said: "A few of my friends think it's a bit weird because I play rugby as well, but you don't have to be a girl to play the flute."

Sophie Luck, 13, has been playing the drums for nearly a year. She said: "It's nice because the teachers here will take on anyone. I used to play the violin but I play more naturally on the drums."

Music teacher Pete Spence said: "I think kids pick instruments suited to their gender because traditionally boys look better jumping up and down with guitars and stuff, but girls are getting more of an edge these days and I'd like to see it more."

Liam Tsang, 11, said he was not concerned about learning an instrument which is more associated with girls. He started playing the flute three years ago after a musical assembly at his primary school.

He said: "I like it because it's got a nice sound and I find it relaxing. Everyone here is happy that I play the flute and I don't get any stick."

Student Chloë Michaud, 13, started playing the trombone six years ago because she wanted to be different, and she is the only girl at her school who plays.

She said: "I enjoy playing it because it's really loud and I like being heard. More girls should take it up and show the boys we can do it."

Redbridge Music Service director Eric Forder said that children do tend to opt for instruments thought to be suited to their sex, but this can come down to size and cost.

He added: "What we are doing here is breaking down the barriers and enabling all children to learn.

"It's doesn't matter what instrument it is.

"Music is for everyone and people can achieve the same level regardless of gender."