Lesley Barnes, Michael J Walsh and Marion Hine on the importance of the arts and humanities
The idea that the arts do not matter as much as other subjects is not new (Editorial, 6 May). When my daughter started her A-levels, the head of sixth form told her that it was time to give up her hobby (he meant playing the piano) and concentrate on “proper” subjects. Fortunately, she ignored him, went on to study at the Guildhall and has been performing and teaching for the best part of 30 years.
Lesley Barnes
Greenford, London
• As a history graduate, I naturally endorse the claims for clear thinking and similar benefits associated with degrees in the humanities, but how does one explain their absence in our prime minister (literae humaniores, second class, Oxford, 1987)?
Michael J Walsh
London
