This decline can be seen in the waning music sales, public opinion polls, time studies and declining concert attendance.

Playing tests, class participation, class preparation, home practice and concert attendance are all assessment criteria.

Program elements include written theory, sight singing, concert attendance, and community involvement.

But in this instant-access age of infinite down-loads and rising concert attendances, pop has become mainstream entertainment for all ages.

The full withdrawal of state subsidies at the start of 2001, combined with the long-term decline in concert attendances, aggravated the financial problems that threatened the orchestra's survival.