Music has proven a salvation for many during lockdown, whether it be listening to favourite artists or picking up an instrument for the first time.
And plenty of skilled musicians across the north and north-east have been doing their best to make it a little bit easier for people to unlock the performer inside themselves.
Westhill guitarist Luke Gunn, who is originally from Thurso and had toured the world with rock band Estrella, has taken his years of performing and experience online for those with a passion to play.
Offering personal tuition, the 34-year-old has seen more people than ever wanting to embrace a new skill.
He said: “Locally, I have been doing guitar lessons for around five years now, doing one-to-one tuition from my own dedicated teaching space.
“I thought the lockdown would perhaps stop my tuition classes and I would lose my business, but thankfully I was able to move my lessons online and the response has been so great.
“It has made me think perhaps I could do my lessons like this the whole time.”
The artist explained how music can be an escape from life’s troubles.
He added: “Music is great because it takes you away from being isolated, you’re constantly learning and having to communicate with other musicians as well as with yourself.
“Often people feel lonely stuck indoors and music has been proven to reduce that and help with challenges like stress and anxiety, music helps you move and can be a great motivator.
“If you have a favourite song, learn it. Music should be enjoyed.
“I always focus on what type of music my students are into then we go from there.”
Finn Macpherson, 18, has taken his musical talent with the bagpipes online in the hopes of teaching people how to play.
The musician from Kyleakin, on Skye, recently took on two students aged eight and 11, and is keen for more.
He said:”The reason I started piping is because a lot of the older boys were doing it and it’s great to see others wanting to do the same.
“Its incredible playing in gigs and it has been great to share a bit of what I love with people who are interested.”
