Stage set for Benedetti Foundation music week
THOUSANDS of Inverclyde school pupils are preparing to take part in week-long music sessions thanks to acclaimed Scottish violinist Nicola Benedetti’s foundation.
Around 2,400 young people in primaries 4-7 will add another string to their bow when they join a series of expert workshops next week delivered by the musician’s charitable organisation, the Benedetti Foundation, in partnership with the council’s music service.
Inverclyde is one of just 13 areas in the UK and Ireland to host a residency this year and there will also be sessions for around 170 young strings players, training for almost 50 local primary teachers, and an event for music instructors, including those from neighbouring areas.
During the primary workshops, young people will be taken on a musical adventure exploring the fundamentals of making music including the basics of pitch, pulse, rhythm and harmony through body percussion, composing, listening to live music and having lots of fun along the way.
Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s convener of education and communities, said: “This is a fantastic coup for Inverclyde to be selected to host a Benedetti Residency and it will be a wonderful learning opportunity for our young people and great fun at the same time.
“It will also be an excellent experience for our young strings players, staff and music instructors to learn from experts from the Benedetti Foundation team.
“Nicola Benedetti is one of Scotland’s most talented and celebrated musicians and her success thus far has inspired so many musicians and the work of her charitable foundation through events like this will only encourage more young performers to follow their dreams.”
The Benedetti Foundation was established by Grammy award-winning violinist Nicola Benedetti CBE in 2019.
It delivers transformative experiences through mass music education and aims to ensure equal access to music participation and appreciation for all.
The Residency Sessions in Inverclyde have been generously supported by Creative Scotland.
For more information, visit www.benedettifoundation.org.