Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Staff prepare to make a Big Noise in schools
AN innovative new programme which aims to improve children’s lives through music is ready to launch in Dundee next week.
Staff and musicians from Sistema Scotland are preparing to bring their Big Noise initiative to St Pius and Claypotts Castle primary schools in Douglas.
The scheme teaches kids to play an instrument and perform in an orchestra in an effort to improve their confidence and wellbeing.
The project has been in the pipeline for a couple of years, and aims to follow the success of similar programmes elsewhere in Scotland.
A spokeswoman said: “This helps develop confidence, teamwork, resilience, problem solving skills and aspiration, enabling children to reach their full potential and lead successful and fulfilled lives.”
She said that during the first year, Big Noise Douglas will be working with P1-3 pupils at both of the primary schools. The programme grows with them year-by-year as they get older, then the next year group below is added.
The spokeswoman added: “Children begin by making and playing cardboard instruments.
“This teaches them how to hold and use their instruments properly before they move on to the real thing.”
Jo Gevers, the newly appointed operations manager at Big Noise Douglas, told the Tele: “I knew about the programme and was thrilled to know Douglas was to have the same opportunity.
“In my previous role as a speech and language therapist I was already working in the nursery at Claypotts Castle and knew many of the children and families there.
“I’m delighted to be able to keep that connection as we bring Big Noise into the schools in Douglas.
“The exciting thing about Big Noise is that it is so much more than just a music programme.
“We will be here in the community in Douglas for the long term, supporting children, young people and families to become confident and outward-looking.
“Learning to play an instrument, especially in an orchestra, develops perseverance and co-operation, focus and self-esteem, empathy and creativity.
“If Big Noise Douglas produces some fine musicians, that will be great but what we really want is children and families who are flourishing in life, because of all the things they gain from the programme.”
The project — which Jo says has been warmly welcomed by the local community — is backed by Optimistic Sound, a charity set up by Dundonians, including the family of late musician Michael Marra, as well as Dundee City Council.