Musical masterclass

Manchester Camerata performs for primary school children at Oldham Music Centre

BUDDING musicians have been honing their performance skills with a little help from the experts.

Members of the world-renowned Manchester Camerata Orchestra have been hosting workshops for youngsters at Oldham Music Centre to give an insight into how instruments are played and how they sound in harmony.

The project has benefited 19 schools, with more than 500 youngsters attending the special recitals.

The sessions are a first practical introduction to music for some of the children and it is hoped they might be inspired to take up an instrument at school and join one of the music centre’s ensembles.

Councillor Jack Hulme, cabinet member for children and families, said: “The Camerata have been regular visitors to Oldham Music Centre for several years now and this is a very beneficial arrangement for everyone.

“Music really can enrich youngsters’ lives and sessions like these also offer really positive developmental opportunities for them.

“I am told that the brass and woodwind quintets and a string quartet all gave splendid performances and — best of all — the feedback and enthusiasm of the children was excellent.”