MSPs should review the provision of music lessons in schools as a matter of urgency, according to the Scottish Conservatives.
Education spokeswoman Liz Smith said inequalities in access to music tuition across schools in different local authorities must be addressed as a priority.
Ms Smith has written to the convener of Holyrood's Education Committee to express her concerns that "far too many pupils" are missing out.
The MSP said: "From recently published EIS statistics and the data collected by councils, it is very clear that there are huge variations in fees, what the exemptions are and what instrumental teaching is on offer.
"Even more worrying is the 33% decline in the number of instrumental music teachers between 2007 and 2016 which seems set to continue.
"As far as music tuition is concerned, local authorities are really struggling to find the necessary resources to provide what is necessary so the committee should be looking to other countries and to public-private partnerships to make available the necessary funds to give every young person the musical experience they deserve."
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: "Music tuition is of enormous benefit to young people and the Scottish Government is actively providing leadership to encourage participation in music.
"Local authorities are directly responsible for spending on music tuition in schools. Overall funding to councils is increasing in real terms, despite continued UK Government cuts to Scotland's resource budget.
"While respecting the autonomy of local councils, Scottish Ministers have committed to working in collaboration with partners to find solutions that help ensure instrumental music remains accessible to all."
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