The BBC has changed course on its proposed cuts to BBC English orchestras after pressure from musicians, the public and politicians.
The cuts, which were announced in March, would have reduced roles in the BBC Symphony, Concert and Philharmonic orchestras by 20%.
On Thursday, the corporation said that while it needed to make savings, it was committed to working with the Musicians’ Union to explore alternatives to what had been proposed.
The BBC has already reversed its decision to scrap the BBC Singers chamber choir, which would have resulted in the loss of 20 posts, after fierce opposition from conductors, choirmasters and senior members of the government and the opposition.
It is the third U-turn performed by the BBC in the space of just a few weeks after it suspended and then reinstated Gary Lineker over his use of social media to criticise government refugee policy.
The BBC said any alternative money-saving routes being explored would look to ensure BBC performing groups could be sustained.
It also pledged to deliver the recommendations of its 2022 Classical Review strategy, including investing more in education, opening up the classical sector as a place to work, and innovating to bring classical music to new audiences.
“In exploring alternative proposals, we will also invite independent experts from across the sector to work with us and the Musicians’ Union,” it said in a statement.
“We remain committed to consulting the Musicians’ Union and other BBC unions on progress regarding the alternative models being proposed for BBC Singers.”
Naomi Pohl, the MU general secretary, said: “Over the past two weeks, we have had more positive discussions with the BBC and we believe they have listened to the concerns of the union, our members and the wider industry.
“While we appreciate the financial challenges faced by the broadcaster in the current climate, we have always been fierce advocates for their unique role in the sector and we will approach this consultation with a focus on building on what they do rather than paring it down.”
She said the union’s aim would be to protect jobs and look at income generation and greater use of the performing groups within the BBC.
Alex Gascoine, the chair of the MU’s executive committee and steward of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, said: “The MU understands the challenges caused by a gradual decline in funding for music and the arts in the UK. We will continue to represent and consult our members, lobby the government and work with the wider arts sector to ensure the most sustainable future for our industry and its artists.”
