Music is a massive presence at Wilberlee Junior and Infant School, near Slaithwaite. HAZEL ETTIENNE reports

MUSIC is at the very heart of everything which pupils and staff do at Wilberlee Junior and Infant School.

This “Small School With a Big Heart” on the moors above Slaithwaite thrives on the Colne Valley’s musical traditions.

Almost three-quarters of the 72 pupils play an instrument.

Also, head teacher Richard Bottom is an accomplished musician, who plays with Huddersfield and Slaithwaite philharmonic orchestras, staff and parents all enjoy music making and even school secretary Pauline Wood is learning to play the clarinet!

Recent research has shown that music lessons for primary children improve brain development and improve memory.

Canadian researchers say there is evidence that musically trained youngsters performed better in tests for literacy, verbal memory, maths and IQ.

Mr Bottom said: “Music permeates throughout the school. All the staff enjoy it, every child sings, three-quarters play a musical instrument. It’s just been accepted since I came here in 1991 that music will be a strong focus.

“It is a fantastic part of school life, not driven by Sats or targets. Children don’t feel pressured in any way. Music and sports are great for that.”

Mr Bottom added: “Music helps with children’s listening, concentration and co-ordination skills.

“Their confidence soars during performances. You just can’t measure the benefits which it brings across the curriculum.”

Most recently the school organised a Harmony on the Hill event to showcase its musical talents.

It raised money for the school’s bid to become a Forest School, part of the national Forest Education Initiative, which aims to encourage people of all ages to create positive outdoor experiences.

The concert included music, dance and drama and had a prom- like feel, with people dressing in posh frocks and bow-ties bringing picnic hampers, umbrellas and wellies. Thankfully the latter weren’t needed.

The school has 28 violinists, who started to play last year as part of a project using additional Government cash from the Wider Opportunities fund.

The players receive weekly lessons from either Ralph Barker, lead strings tutor with Kirklees Music School, or Mr Bottom.

There are also enthusiastic brass players, a woodwind section, pianists and cellists.

The school can also boast a family of string players, The Family Brigg Quartet with mum Jacqui and daughter Gemma, 10, Hannah, 15 and Sara, 19 also playing violin. Son and brother Sam, 12, plays the guitar.

Jacqui only took up the violin a few months ago with Gemma.

She said: “The worst thing is that when I nag them about practising they just turn round and tell me to do some as well!”