HUNDREDS of Bradford primary school children could pick up a passion for the piano thanks to a new musical project that is coming to the district.

Pupils aged five to seven years are set to see a play about a piano and a pigeon designed to inspire them to become music makers.

The play, called Skylar’s Missing Note, is a collaboration between Manic Chord Theatre and Leeds International Piano Competition. It is being brought to the district by Bradford Council’s Music and Arts Service with support from Emerald Foundation.

The play will be performed to year one and two pupils in 20 primary schools across the district in March, giving them an early introduction to music education.

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Tony Johnson, Head of Bradford Council’s Music and Arts Service, said: “We are excited to bring this dynamic and distinctive performance to our schools for the first time.

“It is an energetic, fun show that includes a lot of audience participation and live piano playing and I have absolutely no doubt that it will thrill and delight the young pupils.

“The performance is followed by interactive workshops and activities that will allow the school children to explore and develop their understanding of music.

“A music education is so valuable, not just for the pleasure playing music can bring to people but also because it enhances many other areas of life, learning and wellbeing.”

Councillor Imran Khan, Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for education, employment and skills, said: “We are committed to offering young people in Bradford district access to good music education as it is an educational building block which impacts wider academic attainment and boosts life skills such as team work, confidence and coordination.

“It is great that our music service have been able to bring this project to our schools and engage with and inspire young pupils.”

Sam Berrill and David Cartwright, co-Artistic Directors of Manic Chord Theatre, said: “Music is a universal language and one which Manic Chord feel everyone should be exposed to. In our infancy, the engagement with and understanding of music helps to shape a whole host of developmental skills, cognitive functions and social interactions.

“Whilst giving students an unforgettable, memorable and – for some – brand new artistic experience, the project aims to use an inventive music-driven storytelling to inspire younger generations to see learning as a multi-dimensional, creative and empowering adventure - as well as being incredibly fun”

More than 10,000 children and young people learn to play a musical instrument or receive vocal tuition from the council’s Music and Arts Service every year with lessons delivered in more than 80 per cent of the district’s schools.

The service also provides out of school music activities for children and young people from beginner bands through to flagship ensembles like the Bradford Youth Brass Band, Bradford Youth Wind Orchestra and the Bradford Youth Orchestra as well as rock bands, string and percussion ensembles.

The Leeds International Piano Competition has been the world’s leading classical piano competition for over 50 years – developing and promoting the highest levels of international piano playing by artists from across the globe.