Hundreds of children in Trafford have still been enjoying music lessons despite the coronavirus.
The lockdown has meant pupils have been able to attend their normal lessons but Trafford Music Service was determined to make sure children did not miss out on their learning.
The service which is normally based at The Claremont Centre in Sale town centre started running online music lessons after the Easter holidays for all pupils.
Now more than 600 have signed up for weekly music lessons on a variety of instruments including piano, violin, saxophone, guitar, French horn.
As well as giving young people vital access to music teachers at home, the service is now currently offering specialist online classes such as Infants at Home Choir, Infant Violas at Home.
Trafford Music Service’s Head of Music, Ruth O’Keefe said:
It’s important that young people during these challenging times have some fun, structure and normality by continuing their music education. Music is great therapy as well as a communicator and it is one way students can express themselves and enjoy the freedom that music allows. By continuing our weekly lessons our young people have something to look forward to and something to work towards.
Olivia Lee, aged 10 from Park Road Sale Primary School now continues her French horn lessons from home online.
Olivia said:
Being able to have my French horn lessons every week with my teacher on Zoom has been a highlight of my week. I enjoy playing lots as it makes me feel happy and still seeing Mrs O’Keefe means I’m still talking to a teacher and learning new things.
There is evidence to suggest learning to play an instrument and read music benefits children in other areas of school life while gaining confidence, communication skills and concentration.
Parents of students who want to sign up for lessons get in touch with the music service who book the student in for a slot and email over a link to join a video meeting. You can book lessons on www.traffordmusicservice.co.uk or email the team on music.service@trafford.gov.uk
Posted on Monday 22nd June 2020