03/09/2009
The DCSF's National Year of Music, branded 'Tune In', launches next week with a live music lesson streamed around the country.
But this isn't any old music lesson. The 30-minute broadcast, 'First Class: The Ultimate Music Lesson', will feature appearances from musical icons and upstarts including guitarist Slash, N-Dubz, The Hoosiers, Dannii Minogue, songwriter Guy Chambers, DJ Yoda, Vanessa Mae, Katherine Jenkins, Girls Can't Catch and the cast of West End show Wicked. Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden will even be dispensing some wisdom.
Jamie Cullum, VV Brown and beatboxer Killa Kela will be taking part in the live lesson on the day, performing and answering pre-submitted questions from pupils.
The lesson will look at a broad sweep of musical skills and advice, from discovering a beat to picking up an instrument, writing lyrics and forming a band, performing and recording music, and more.
Although Tune In will involve children and young people of all ages, this lesson is aimed at Year 7 to Year 9 pupils, the age range where interest in music at school often tends to wane, and is designed to inspire those students to get involved in making music.
The lesson takes place at lunchtime on Thursday 10 September, and can be watched via an interactive whiteboard.
If you want to take part in the live music lesson or submit your pupils' questions to be answered onscreen, email sarah-jane.king@freud.com or call 020 3003 6354.
First Class: The Ultimate Music Lesson is the first of four days of events taking place around the country to mark the Tune In launch. There will be more activities, opportunities and performances throughout the academic year. Check back next week for more news as it happens.