PUPILS, parents and staff got to rock out during a special school concert.
Young rockers at St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School, in Midsomer Norton, part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, performed for families at a Rocksteady concert, the culmination of a term of weekly band sessions.
The show highlighted the progress pupils have made through the Rocksteady programme, which teaches primary-age children to play instruments and make music together.
Sessions take place during the school day, with pupils learning instruments such as electric guitar, bass guitar, keyboard, drums and vocals.
Rather than learning individually, pupils rehearse in small groups, developing skills in rhythm and performance alongside teamwork, listening and confidence, led by Rocksteady band leader Angus Stewart.
Parents fund the weekly lessons, and the concerts give families the opportunity to see pupils’ progress and enjoy their performances.
Ellen Croker, headteacher at St Benedict’s, said: “The concert was fantastic. It was brilliant to see our pupils sharing their love of music and growing in confidence on stage.
“Experiences like this help them enjoy music, work together and take pride in what they can achieve.”
Helen Taylor, CEO of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, added: “It’s wonderful to see the children at St Benedict’s enjoying music, building confidence, and working together. Rocksteady gives them a chance to shine and develop skills that will stay with them for life.”
Brilliant idea, would have been nice if we could have actually seen and heard them playing.
Amazing – not all children can be good at the general curriculum.
Awesome my kid also part of rock steady. She used to be shy but I am amazed how she is happy and more active when playing instrument
This is really good and positive news to read and the children seem to have gained a lot of experience and enjoyment from working together to produce music. I hope this practice catches on and more schools get on board with what sounds like a great idea and a benefit to the children.
Studio 6 in Wootton Bassett would like to offer a free recording session for one song for this fantastic group of young people.