In recent weeks, the continued allegations of historical sexual abuse at Chetham’s School of Music have put many aspects of music education under intense public scrutiny (Music school abuse inquiry identifies nine ‘key suspects’, 19 February). Following the conviction of the previous director of music, Michael Brewer, the tragic death of Frances Andrade, and extensive testimonies within the press of different abuse, it can be clear that there should now be a whole independent inquiry into the alleged sexual and psychological abuse by Chetham’s staff because the establishment of the institution as a music school in 1969. Such an inquiry would ideally extend to other institutions to boot, a number of that have also been the topic of allegations of abuse.

Recent press reports have suggested that in this time many students complained to senior members of staff concerning the sexually abusive behaviour of a few Chetham’s teachers, but that no satisfactory action was taken. While it really is of primary concern that folks that stand accused must be investigated once possible, if these allegations are shown to be correct, it will be significant to realise the broader implications of a college culture which facilitated such abuses of trust, and afforded alleged offenders long-term protection. Thus, we ask senior members of staff from that point to account for what seems to be the severe failure of the college system to offer protection to its pupils from folks that exploited their positions of power.

The prevalence of sexual abuse, which appears to have continued unhindered over decades, suggests an alarming loss of responsibility and competence within the management of a college which had, particularly, an obligation to guard the welfare of its students and to nurture the artistic potential of each pupil. That Chetham’s appears to have failed on this respect, and with such devastating consequences for the private and professional lives of the alleged victims, now requires some considerable explanation from folks that held senior positions of authority.
Paul Lewis Pianist (Chetham’s alumnus 1986-1990)
Tim Horton Pianist (Chetham’s alumnus 1983-1992)
Ian Pace Lecturer in music, City University (Chetham’s alumnus 1978-1986; Juilliard School 1991-1992)
Peter Donohoe Pianist (Chetham’s alumnus 1964-71)
Daniel Harding Conductor (Chetham’s alumnus 1988-93)
Imogen Cooper Pianist
Steven Isserlis Cellist
Mark Padmore Tenor
Martin Roscoe Pianist
Lisa Batiashvili Violinist

Ex-Chetham’s students:

Elaine Ackers (1981-1983)
Robert Agnew (1982-1989)
Colin Akers (1982-1984)
Julie Alderton (1974-1979)
Bernadette Anguige, nee Warburton (1989-1996)
Mark Ashford (1984-1990)
Nicholas Ashton (1973-1980)
Nadine Bacon, nee Wiltshier (1980-1990)
Alicia Bailey (1985-1995)
Phil Bailey (1989-1993)
Brendan Ball (1981-1984)
Richard Bamping (1979-1987)
James Banbury (1984-1986)
Sarah Barnes (1980-1987)
Matthew Barley (1981-1983; GSMD, 1983-1987)
Patrick Bennett (1985-1988)
Helena Bidder née Brewin (1986-1988)
Emma Black (1983-1987)

Full list of signatories here