Exam Board reinstates jazz on curriculum after outcry

Examination board Edexcel has performed a U-turn and reinstated UK jazz legend Courtney Pine to its A-level curriculum (see story in Jazzwise 259, February 2021).

Following an outcry from musicians, educators and the jazz community, Edexcel has backtracked on the move, which would have excised not only Pine, but jazz more generally, from its Popular Music syllabus.

In a statement Pearson Edexcel said: “The first thing to say is that we got this decision wrong. As a learning company and qualifications provider, we agree entirely that pupils should study music by composers from diverse cultures and backgrounds. We hold ourselves to the highest standards and, on this occasion, we have fallen short.

“In order to fix this, we will work together with teachers, learners and a range of stakeholders to carry out a further review of the set works and the wider listening pieces. This will be completed in time for students starting their A Level music studies in September 2021.”

The Ivors Academy, the independent professional association for UK music creators welcomed Edexcel's decision.

Robert Mitchell, Chair of The Ivors Academy Educational Publishing Working Group, and a composer, musician and piano professor, said:

“I welcome Edexcel’s statement, but we didn’t need to be here. The reinstatement of Jazz and Courtney Pine should be immediate. We are very keen to contribute to broadening the music A-level syllabus for Edexcel. The same goes for other exam boards who are thinking about reducing their curriculum. Now is the time for a way more inclusive, bold and creative syllabus that will inspire, educate and broaden young minds.”