MORE than 100 youngsters exercised their vocal cords at a fun-packed event.

Moreton Hall invited pupils from Weston Rhyn, Woodside and Bwlchgwyn primary schools enjoyed a range of musical activities and singing when they formed a mass choir in front of a packed audience of parents and teachers for the North Shropshire Big Sing.

The initiative, developed by North Shropshire Music hub and under the tuition of Moreton Hall’s music department, encourages children to explore the joys of making music as well as generating a love and enjoyment for choral singing.

Big Sing co-ordinator, Eleanor Diack, has visited primary schools and delivering workshop sessions on breathing, performing and choral techniques.

The sessions culminated in the Big Sing, with all students and their class teachers being invited to come together to perform a selection of well-known songs.

She said: “It has been fabulous to work with such enthusiastic pupils and teachers over the past five to six weeks: they should all be extremely proud of their efforts!

“Although we live in times of uncertainty regarding music funding in education, it is hoped that North Shropshire Music's Big Sing goes some way to support and engender an interest in choral singing and music making in general, in a fun and entertaining way.”

Lianne Lewis, class teacher at Weston Rhyn, said: “The staff at Moreton Hall are so talented in their ability to get the best out of the children. This initiative will help to form the foundation of our music lessons going forward. It has been great to be part of a community wide event such as the Big Sing.”

Helen Rayner, director of North Shropshire Music, added: “We are extremely fortunate to have the choral expertise and passion of Ellie Diack on the North Shropshire Music Team. It was abundantly clear that both the pupils and staff have hugely benefited from this opportunity. I encourage any school who would like to take part in our next Big Sing event, to get in touch.”

For further information on the Big Sing, or to register your school’s interest please contact Helen Rayner at raynerh@moretonhall.com