CHILDREN have been fine-tuning their talents at a Barrhead music school.

Gifted little ones beat off school holiday blues by learning about the basics of music and trying their hand at a range of instruments at the Diane Mitchell Music School.

The sessions at the Barrhead Evangelical Church are proving increasingly popular as the school prepares to launch a permanent base in the town.

Youngsters aged between three and eight gathered at the Cross Arthurlie Street church to practise their skills.

Explaining the aim of the summer workshops, owner Diane told the Barrhead News: “The idea behind the classes is to develop the child’s musicality and teach them the basics of music, such as beat, rhythm and pitch.

“They’re based on the Kodaly approach, which involves teaching music to children in a fun way that develops their musicality.

“It’s good for their confidence as well.

“The summer schools are fun for the children and they give them an educational focus during the holidays.

“We’re hoping to increase things in Barrhead. I’ve been in Paisley for two-and-a-half years and the classes are well-established there.

“Hopefully, that’ll continue in Barrhead.”

Diane’s ambition to open her own music school in her home town was realised earlier this year.

Those plans are now developing as the former Barrhead High pupil has managed to secure a permanent base for the school.

As of next month, the Diane Mitchell Music School will be based at the Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire centre in Kelburn Street.

Diane added: “The open day is going to be on Saturday, September 9.

“Classes will start the following week and we’ll also offer lessons in guitar, piano, violin and drums.

“We’ve invited Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur along to open it and the event will run between 10am and 4pm.”

To find out more about the new music school, visit the website at www.dianemitchellmusicschool.com.

Alternatively, call Diane on 0789 668 9816.