Primary school pupils will get a taste of the music opportunities on offer at the secondary schools they’ll be moving to.
 
More than 200 Year 6 pupils are invited to visit their new schools in July to meet music teachers, take part in workshops introducing them to the lessons on offer and perform in short concerts.
 
The Music Service sessions, being held for the first time, form part of the detailed programme of events, organised by the Department of Education and Children, aimed at ensuring 10 and 11-year-olds make a smooth transition to their new schools in September.
 
John Kinley, who manages the Primary Schools’ Music Initiative, said all Year 6 pupils learning an instrument with the Music Service had been invited to a session.
 
‘Pupils will have the chance to find out more about how instrumental lessons are organised at their new school as well as learning a little more about music, both in lessons and as an extra-curricular activity. Participating pupils will also have the chance to play along with other students, already at the school, in a relaxed, confidence-building workshop led by our team of Music Service staff and our colleagues from the schools, culminating in a short concert at the end of the morning that parents will be welcome to attend.’
 
Sessions take place at:
 
St Ninian’s High School               1st July 2013       (08:40 to 11:30)
Queen Elizabeth II High School    2nd July 2013      (08:50 to 12:00)
Ballakermeen High School          4th July 2013      (08:50 to 11:40)
Castle Rushen High School          8th July 2013       (08:50 to 12:00)
Ramsey Grammar School            17th July 2013     (08:50 to 11:30)
 
Pupils have been sent letters containing all the details and parents with inquiries should contact the Music Service on 686555.