Band rocking their school
A pupil-teacher pop group is set to hit the road with hits spanning three generations.
South Hylton Primary Academy’s latest group, SHH, South Hylton Harmony, comprising 13 pupils and teachers Tony Lindstedt, guitar, and Dan Potter on drums, are creating a buzz in the area with their mixture of classic hits interspersed with current chart numbers.
The pupils, aged nine, 10 and 11 are nearly 40 years younger than band leader and school music co-ordinator Tony, 48.
However, they more than hold their own performing hits such as Cameo’s 80’s classic ‘Word Up’ ,through to ‘Diamonds’ by Rihanna.
Tony hopes to take the band “out on the road” to perform at venues, such has been the reaction from staff, pupils, parents and friends.
The youngsters on vocals, keyboards, saxophones and percussion were part of a set for parents and friends at a matinee and evening performance at the Sunderland school.
Tony said: “I want the pupils to be able to leave school with the option of having a career in music or being able to play for pleasure, that’s how I started by picking up a guitar, which has mapped out my life ever since.”
Pupil, Peter Rankin, said: “I love the rock band because it’s so much fun every week and it’s made me more confident.”
And fellow band member, Gabrielle Geraldie, said: “I’ve learned how to play the keyboard since joining the band.”
All the money raised from ticket sales to the events will be put towards buying musical instruments for the group, who are currently hiring and borrowing the instruments they use on stage.