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Things have got a whole lot noisier here!

The music curriculum at Freshwaters Primary Academy is being expanded to give children more creative opportunities.

A range of new opportunities have been introduced this year -

• The school choir has this year doubled in size, with 40 children regularly turning up to rehearse and perform each week after school. Their sights are firmly set on the O2 in January where they will join thousands of other children in the Young Voices performance.
• The whole school and parents will join together at Harlow Bandstand to sing Christmas songs.
• All of Year 4 are learning to play the recorder, working with professional music tutors.
• The school is using an online teaching tool to enable non musically trained staff to tutor pupils.
• The school has bought a set of glockenspiels as additional instruments for children to learn to play.
• Guitar lessons take place at the school to support pupils and develop their social skills while working in small groups.
• Classes practise a song of the week to perform in a sing-off during assembly, with the best performers rewarded.

Robin Dalton, music lead and Year 6 teacher, said: “Music is a key part of our curriculum with a bigger focus this year. I am excited as suddenly we have lots going on musically for our children. They are really enjoying the extra opportunities to learn new skills and to perform.

“This work is important as research shows music is a catalyst in developing motor skills and brain development. Learning to play musical instruments benefits children in other areas; it improves memory, the ability to think more independently, boosts self-esteem and confidence and gives them a sense of achievement. That is incredibly important, especially for those with low self-esteem.

“I have been a trumpet player for 24 years, having had my interest sparked in Year 5. I hope some of our children, like me, find a real passion for music that stays with them long into the future.”