A PROJECT which gives children the opportunity to learn new musical skills is once again offering a scholarship scheme to pupils from Year 3 upwards.

The scheme by Okehampton Music Centre aims to remove the financial barriers associated with learning an instrument.

Scholarships are available to around 100 pupils and registration for the scheme closes on Tuesday, December 6.

The project is currently funded by Okehampton United Charities and Devon Music Education Hub.

The centre currently teaches children how to play the bassoon, oboe, violin, viola, cello, French horn, tuba, and trombone. The centre also has its own choir, which was added this year.

The workshops focus on the skills required to play in an orchestra such as rhythm, reading music, and listening, as well as giving the opportunities to try improvisation and composition.

As well as providing musical experiences, the Okehampton Music Centre also offers opportunity for primary school children to make friends from other schools who may be in their classes when they attend Okehampton College in the years that follow. The centre also enables the younger children to become familiar with the college environment, making transition into Year 7 less daunting.

For more information about Okehampton Music Centre contact Community Links at [email protected]