A children’s orchestra project inspired by a musical movement in Venezuela had its premiere in Aberdeen yesterday.
The Big Noise – based on the El Sistema programme in South America – aims to improve the lives of youngsters everywhere through the gift of music.
Since it began in the 1970s El Sistema has brought the joy of classical music to more than 300,000 children across Venezuela by offering free lessons in orchestral instruments.
Yesterday the initiative made its way to Torry, where primary ones and twos from Walker Road and Tullos schools put on a performance at the playing fields near Girdleness Road.
From violins to violas, double bass and timpanis, the youngsters were able to get their hands on musical instruments they might never have had the chance to play before.
Torry is the third community in Scotland to adopt the scheme, following Govanhill in Glasgow and Raploch in Stirling.
Yesterday’s launch was attended by local MSP and Minister for Public Health Maureen Watt, who said the sessions were hugely beneficial to the children taking part.
She said: “The Scottish Government is committed to investing in programmes like this that support young people, tackle inequality and empower communities.
“A recent evaluation by the Glasgow Centre for Population Health showed how Sistema Scotland is helping to transform the health, well being and prospects of the children who take part in Big Noise orchestras in Govanhill and Raploch. Now Big Noise Torry will reap the benefits.”
Aberdeen City Council is providing 75% of the funding for Big Noise Torry, with the remaining 25% being paid for by a variety of local groups.
Ms Watt added: “As well as increasing the confidence, aspirations and self-esteem in our children and young people, Big Noise also brings together the community, and I’m really pleased to be meeting the next group getting involved here in Torry.”