MUSICIAN Michael Kidd fronting a national campaign over cuts to orchestra funding that is seeing players leave the profession.

Born in Swindon and currently a member of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, he is highlighting the financial difficulties musicians struggle with.

The Musicians' Union has launched an awareness campaign after finding 44 per cent of the UK’s orchestral musicians say they do not earn enough to live on.

Michael said: “It’s been the case for a number of years that orchestra funding has been cut and cut and cut, until now it has been completely decimated.

“My wage has dropped by 20 per cent in real terms and it won’t be a viable career.

"I’ve reconsidered my options numerous times.”

Michael started playing the French horn aged eight, but he fears for future generations of musicians.

He said: “It won’t survive in 20 years’ time.

"It will become a pastime for the rich and famous.

"Classical music is already classed as elitist but the audiences wouldn’t say that at all.”

“It’s not just concerts we do. Orchestras get involved with outreach programmes, do loads of film and TV stuff.

"They do videogame music. But it all goes on behind the scenes.”

According to the Musicians' Union, players typically invest around £80,000 in their training including tuition fees and student loans.

Those in full-time employment earn around £21,000 after qualifying, but cuts have reduced the amount of permanent positions available.

Horace Trubridge, general secretary of the Musicians' Union, said: “Orchestras need the support of the UK public if they are to survive. ”

Many orchestras are involved in community outreach programmes with schools, hospitals and care homes. Mr Kidd has done work for a retirement home. He said: “One resident put it to us that she comes in feeling miserable and goes out feeling happy.”