The Guildhall School of Music has released a photo of its principal ensemble, the Guildhall Symphony Orchestra, with and without (above) its EU students to demonstrate the impact they believe a vote to leave the European Union could have on the institution.

38%

42 students out of the orchestra's 109 members (38%) hail from countries in the European Union, and currently pay the same fee as UK students (£9,000 a year for undergraduates) to study at the conservatoire.

They believe that a vote to leave the EU in the referendum on 23rd June would mean an uncertain future for EU students at conservatoires and universities across the UK. The funding system for European students to study in the UK could be called into question, as could visa free travel for EU nationals.

Brexit

Professor Barry Ife, Principal of the Guildhall School, stated: "The Guildhall School has over 200 students from the EU and we benefit greatly from their talent and enthusiasm.

Brexit would deprive them of access to the student loans scheme and their ability to study here would be put at risk. We need talented young international students to keep our world-leading provision fresh and vibrant. And we need to stay connected in an interconnected world."

There are approximately 125,000 EU students studying at UK universities, making up 5% of the student population4BR

Figures

There are approximately 125,000 EU students studying at UK universities, making up 5% of the student population. At conservatoires the figure is generally much higher — at the Guildhall School, 19% of the total student body come from the EU.

According to analysis by Universities UK, EU students in London also generated £798.9m for the regional economy and 7,580 jobs.

The Guildhall School is supporting Universities for Europe, the campaign by Universities UK highlighting the value of EU membership to British universities, which in turn benefits British people, the economy and society.