STUDENTS from Droitwich Spa High School have been working with representatives from Severn Arts (formerly Worcestershire Youth Music) on a project called ‘Yamaha Class Band’.
It gives a class of 25 year eight pupils the chance to experience the fun and excitement of learning and playing an instrument as a band, with orchestral instruments provided by Yamaha.
The youngsters have been learning to play various brass and woodwind instruments since September under the expert guidance of Severn Arts’ tutors Simon Grew and Ian Hattersley.
The pupils opted to join the session rather than their usual music lesson and, after trying out different instruments, they chose the ones best suited to them and spent time practising throughout the week to demonstrate their commitment and maximise the benefit of the project.
Mr Grew said: “Both Ian and I are delighted with the progress of the pupils so far and look forward to some great playing as the year progresses.”
Nick Wardle, head of creative arts at the school, said it provided an exciting opportunity, adding he hoped most of the group would choose to continue with tuition into a second year and beyond.
“I have noticed nationally the number of young people learning to play an orchestral instrument has taken a dip in recent years and our involvement in this project is a step towards bucking this trend in our area.
“I am sure we will see many of our ‘Class Banders’ performing in the many concerts and performances we put on throughout the year to complement the already established, 40-strong Gospel Choir and the school’s Madrigal Choir.”
