More than 1,000 mini music makers from across Merseyside have teamed up with Yamaha as part of a new scheme aimed at inspiring children to find a passion in music.
Seventeen schools from across Sefton and Knowsley joined forces with the world-leading brand in musical instruments and audio equipment for a series of workshops at Litherland High School’s Starry Nights Theatre for two days of activities, which hoped to encourage the next generation of players.
Teaming up with three musical hubs from around the UK, it also provided an opportunity for students to discover instruments that they’ve always wanted to try, including woodwind and brass.
Communication and Brand Expert at Yamaha Jeremy Smith said: “We believe in assisting all levels of player across more categories than any other business in the world. From music schools to grand pianos on world tours, we’re there for the long haul.
“We want to inspire the next generation of music makers’ passions and help them take a step forward to express their individuality, emotion and creativity. That’s why we’ve invested in this new pilot outreach program. Our aim is simple – to support the music hubs in signing up new music makers and give the audience an experience they won’t forget.”
Research revealed that 29% of people who learned an instrument at school still play an instrument today. Over half of parents whose children are learning an instrument believe it has helped their children with other skills like creative thinking or boosting their confidence and encouraging perseverance and patience.
Jeremy added: “Music is a social force that brings people together, to dance, sing, cheer and share good times. Our hope is that we communicate with students through songs that resonate to them and in turn allow them to have an insight into instruments and genres of music they may never have before.
“With the success of the pilot, we hope to carry out the scheme in multiple schools across the country and we can’t wait to see how this impacts the next generation of musical geniuses.”
As part of the roll out, pioneering trumpet player and producer Louis Dowdeswell and his big band performed for each class of children before pupils were given the opportunity to break out into groups to play instruments and learn more on a 1-1 level.
They were also treated to a performance of adapted modern Disney songs and Christmas classics with a contemporary orchestral masterpiece, which they were encouraged to ring along to.
In line with their Instruments for Education scheme, School Supplier, based in Formby, provided the instruments for the scheme and aided in the organisation.
Managing Director of School Supplier Kevin Kearley said: “We exist to make things like this happen. We are so pleased that we could be involved in the pilot scheme as we believe that all children should have access to the tools that they need to succeed, and if we can play our part in making that happen, then it’s brilliant.”
The next stages of the scheme will be carried out in two other cities with the same plan and intention. The hope is that the scheme will be successful enough to roll out nationwide.
Jeremy added: “Little by little, we’re changing the course of history through our devotion to sound and music. Some products have shaped a generation. Millions of musical journeys took off thanks to us. We’re thinking beyond sound and music, to the positive impact we can make on the future of the planet.”
