From the football pitch to the classroom, schools have worked hard to stamp out sexism. Girls are encouraged to take up woodwork and boys to strut their stuff in the kitchen.
But there is one place where stereotypes are still calling the tune: the music room.
Macho instruments such as the trombone, drums and electric guitar are the province of boys, while girls stick to the gentler tones of the flute, harp, and violin.
Now education experts are asking why. They blame gender stereotyping by teachers and parents, peer pressure, the fear of bullying, and the size and shape of instruments.
![](https://www.youthworker.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/Tuba_Girl.250w.tn_.jpg)