Author: Mr Bryans

The South Lanarkshire Instrumental Music Service was delighted to take part in Provost Cooper’s annual Touch a Life Concert, which took place at Hamilton Town House on Saturday 25 October at 7.30pm.

The evening was a resounding success, bringing together pupils, families, and community partners for a truly uplifting celebration of music and generosity. Organised by Provost Cooper in aid of Sense Scotland and Guide Dogs for the Blind, the concert raised vital funds for causes that make a real difference across South Lanarkshire.

Hosted by much-loved local personalities Edward Reid and Michelle McManus, the concert featured fabulous performances from pupils of the South Lanarkshire Instrumental Music Service, including:

• South Lanarkshire Schools’ (SLS) Big Band
• SLS Saxophone Ensemble
• SLS Choir
• SLS Primary Choir
• Duncanrig Secondary School Musical Theatre Group

Each ensemble delivered a polished, joyful performance that filled the auditorium with energy and pride. The pupils were highly commended by Provost Cooper and all who attended for their talent, enthusiasm, and professionalism throughout the evening.

A special mention goes to the children from Hunter Primary School and St Charles Primary School, who stayed up late to take part in the spectacular finale, performing alongside the award-winning community choir, Soundsational. Their joint performance was described as “simply sensational” and brought the concert to a thrilling close that earned a standing ovation.

Originally planned as three separate concerts, this event evolved into one magnificent extravaganza, a true showcase of the creativity and community spirit that defines South Lanarkshire.

Education Resources are immensely proud of all pupils and staff involved, and grateful to the Provost’s team and community partners for their support. The Touch a Life Concert was not only a musical triumph but also a powerful reminder of how music can unite, inspire, and most importantly…..touch lives.

A musical revolution is underway in South Lanarkshire! The newly formed South Lanarkshire Schools’ Saxophone Ensemble, a dynamic group of 25 talented young musicians, is making waves across Scotland.

The ensemble recently wowed audiences at the prestigious We Make Music Conference at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Their performance was a massive hit, generating a buzz of excitement and proving that collaboration across local schools creates incredible results.

But the biggest star of the show wasn’t a student—it was an instrument! The ensemble has acquired a magnificent bass saxophone, the only one of its kind in the whole of Scotland. This rare instrument is a game-changer, adding a rich, warm depth to the ensemble’s sound and inspiring young musicians to learn more about the saxophone family. The woodwind teachers of South Lanarkshire are equally thrilled, recognising the immense educational value of this unique acquisition.

As the only local authority schools’ saxophone ensemble in Scotland, the group is setting a new standard and hopes to inspire other woodwind communities across the country. Their next performance is at the Touch a Life Concert at Hamilton’s Townhouse on Saturday, October 25th.

For this trailblazing group, the sky’s the limit. Keep an eye on these rising stars—they are just getting started!

On Wednesday 3rd September the Instrumental Music Service were delighted to welcome the return of the IMS Vocal Day, which took place in the fantastic setting of Stonelaw Parish Church. The day featured 185 young vocalists from all South Lanarkshire’s secondary schools, working together to create a choir in a day. The day was led by former South Lanarkshire Instrumental Music Service student Andy McTaggart. Andy lectures in Voice at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and is a professional Baritone, singing across Great Britain and Ireland. Andy was assisted by 3 industry professionals who were there to cater for the range of voices from S4,5&6 singers.

The free and inclusive event was designed to support pupils progressing towards their SQA practical singing exam. Pupils grew in confidence throughout the day as they worked on vocal technique, developing the breath and honing performance skills. A rewarding byproduct of the day was witnessing the friendly social interaction between pupils who were meeting for the first time.

The atmosphere in the room was uplifting when the 185 strong choir commenced and the pupils were quickly in fine voice and learning the first song of the day, in Latin no less! This remarkable event showcased the depth and quality of singers we have across South Lanarkshire and, with the help of the professional choral team, the results were simply breath taking. The pupils were also captivated by a performance from the singers from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. The day was a resounding success, culminating in a final performance to parents and carers. 

The IMS would like to extend our thanks to all the pupils in attendance for their hardwork, excellent attitude and exemplary work ethic. We would also like to thank all Secondary Schools for their logistical help in making the day possible for the pupils, Stonelaw Church for hosting the event and our team of professional singers for their expert guidance on the day.  

This term was have launched the first block of FUNdamentals of Music classes with our amazing YMI Music Teachers. Over the course of 20 weeks Primary 5 pupil across South Lanarkshire will take part in these fun-filled, practical sessions, making music together with their classmates.  The FUNdamentals of Music project introduces pupils to group performance through whole-class music-making. Pupils will also explore musical concepts like rhythm, melody and harmony, discover the instruments of the orchestra and learn the language of music.

FUNdamentals of music enables pupils to build creativity, teamwork and confidence, while having the opportunity to perform with their peers. The project culminates in a class performance where pupils can demonstrate the skills they have developed over the course of the project.For Primary 5 pupils, these sessions are more than lessons – they are the first steps on their musical journey.