Young instrumentalists join forces to make fine music

Children from 13 schools who have only been learning to play instruments for six or seven months packed into City Hall to perform a variety of songs and pieces, including Beethoven’s Ode to Joy and the Can-Can.

The youngsters, aged eight and nine, are involved in the Government’s national Wider Opportunities programme that gives every child a chance to play musical instruments at school.

The head of Hull Music Service, Chris Maynard, said: “It was spine-tingling. The first time they all struck up I was absolutely amazed at how good it sounded.”

It is hoped more than half the children will continue playing an instrument next year, according to Mr Maynard. He added: “In Hull we have a success rate of 56 per cent which is above the national average. Sometimes they change the instrument, but usually they keep the same one.”

Mr Maynard claimed schools reported that children of all abilities improved their attitude while learning to play an instrument over a sustained period, with youngsters with behavioural problems also benefiting.

He said: “They know they can achieve at it and make progress. It is something practical – and they can make a noise.”