PUPILS at a Droitwich school have been given the opportunity to play an instrument as a band.

It is the second year running that Severn Arts (formerly Worcestershire Youth Music) has worked with Droitwich High School’s music department on the Yamaha class band project.

Through the project, year 8 pupils can learn and play an instrument as a band, with orchestral instruments provided by Yamaha.

Twenty five pupils have been enjoying learning various brass and woodwind instruments since September under the guidance of Severn Arts tutors Simon Grew and Ian Hattersley.

Simon Grew, of Severn Arts, said: "The pupils chose to join the session, as opposed to their normal class music lesson and we spent the first couple of weeks ensuring they had the instrument of their choice.

"Pupils are asked to spend time practicing during the week to demonstrate their commitment to the project and to make sure they gain full benefit from being involved.

"Both Ian and I are delighted with the progress of the pupils so far and look forward to some great playing as the year progresses."

Nick Wardle, head of creative arts at Droitwich Spa High School, added: "This is an exciting opportunity for our pupils to learn a musical instrument and I am hoping that most of the group will choose to continue with tuition into a second year and beyond.

"I have noticed that nationally the number of young people learning to play an orchestral instrument has taken a dip in recent years and our involvement in this project is a step towards bucking this trend in our area.

"I am sure we will see many of our class banders performing in the many concerts and performances we put on throughout the year to complement the already established, forty strong Gospel Choir and the school’s Madrigal Choir."