The number of schools accessing Opera North’s award-winning music education programme, In Harmony Opera North, has doubled this term with over 3,200 pupils benefitting each week from the high-quality music provision and performance opportunities the initiative provides.
The new In Harmony schools include Sharp Lane Primary School in Middleton. As we’ve reported in the past, they join South Leeds schools, Windmill Primary School, where the programme launched in 2013, Low Road Primary School, New Bewerley Community School and Clapgate Primary School.
The Headteacher at another In Harmony school, Ling Bob Junior, Infant & Nursery School, in Halifax commented:
“I believe so much in the potential of music to change lives. Music addresses so many needs. The brilliant thing about In Harmony is that it brings those opportunities to schools like mine where the children might not otherwise have access to them.
“It brings me so much pleasure to see my pupils going home with their cellos on their backs, their French horns under their arms. And even if just one of them continues their music through to teenage years, then I will feel it’s my job well done!”
In Harmony Opera North delivers an inclusive weekly programme of music education, enabling young people to access the arts and, in so doing, realise their creative potential. Regular group music making activity is embedded in the school curriculum with the measurable benefits including listening, speaking, problem solving, creativity, positivity, increased aspirations, leadership and teamwork. The programme also provides an entry point for talented young musicians who can choose to embark on a classical music learning pathway with Opera North through school and beyond.
Musicianship is taught to the Early Years and KS1 students by Opera North’s dedicated team at every participating school. For those schools on the full programme, during Year 3 or in some cases Year 4, all pupils are given the chance to learn to play a string instrument and to take part in choir sessions. A year later, every child gets the opportunity to try out or switch to a brass instrument, with a choice of trumpet, French horn or trombone. They are also encouraged to join the afterschool band or choir. Repertoire can include anything from simple songs and nursery rhymes through contemporary songs chosen by the children themselves, to traditional orchestral and operatic works.
Termly performances are held for family and friends, with opportunities for workshops and performances with musicians from the Orchestra and Chorus of Opera North throughout the year. The programme also impacts more broadly, increasing cultural participation among the wider community.
“It makes me feel happy when I play music” said Chloë, a Windmill Primary School pupil.
Over the past decade, the programme has opened up singing and instrumental playing to thousands of children who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to engage with music in this way. As they near the end of their primary years, there is an option for young instrumentalists to join Opera North’s Young Musicians Studio which is held in Leeds on Saturdays and builds on the curriculum learning with small group tuition in musicianship, improvisation, composition and ensemble playing.
Young vocalists can become part of the In Harmony Opera North Saturday Choir to continue to hone their vocal skills. Particularly enthusiastic and committed participants can subsequently audition to join the Opera North Youth Orchestra or the Opera North Youth Company.
Jacqui Cameron, Opera North Education Director, said:
“We’re passionate about music and the impact it can have on young people, schools and the wider community. We believe all children should have access to a high-quality music education from the outset of their school life and be given the chance to achieve their musical potential, whatever that might be. That’s why we remain committed to In Harmony Opera North and why we have increased the provision for enthusiastic, talented musicians looking to continue their musical journey through their secondary school years and beyond.
“While we hope some of the children might ultimately consider a career in the arts, the programme is as much about building a love of music, whether as practitioner or listener, which will stay with these young people throughout their lives, bringing them joy and enhancing their wellbeing for many years to come.”
The In Harmony Opera North programme is generously supported by Arts Council England, The Liz & Terry Bramall Foundation and the Opera North Future Fund.
This post is based on a press release issued by Opera North
Phoro: Pupils at Windmill Primary School. Credit: Tom Arber
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