Junior morning Assembly on 26th March was all about music when the Junior String Group, directed by Ms Rebecca Thompson, performed for parents, staff and fellow pupils.

The audience was treated to two pieces of music, each very different in style, and the girls also demonstrated some of the exercises they participate in during their weekly string group sessions. These exercises help to develop all kinds of musical skills, including recognising rhythms and developing bowing technique.

The girls all very much enjoyed performing and teaching the audience about how playing an instrument develops many different areas of the brain and helps us to become more effective learners. Do have a look at the TedEd Talk video below, which was shown as part of the presentation.

* Rebecca has taught at Withington Girls’ School and Manchester Grammar School since 2000 and has always had a passion for teaching. From 2013-2016 she was the Artistic Director of In Harmony Telford and Stoke where she set up and devised the scheme of work for 900 Primary age children who are being given the opportunity to learn instruments inspired by the El Systema model of Venezuela

She is a member of Manchester Camerata and the Northern Chamber Orchestra and loves playing in the huge variety of repertoire they provide. These orchestras also have lively learning and participation programmes where Rebecca has had the opportunity to share music making and collaboration in diverse range of settings with all ages and abilities.