AN INITIATIVE bringing live music to children is celebrating its first year.

Darlington-based Big Little Gigs was established to introduce youngsters to a broad variety of music.

Founder Sarah Wilson has organised a number of gigs throughout the organisation’s first year.

Children have enjoyed New Orleans jazz, folk, flamenco, string quartets and other live performances, thanks to the project.

Ms Wilson said: “My aim is to inspire a life-long love of live music of all kinds.

“Many children have a one sided view of what music is, something on X Factor, 4Music or Radio 1.

“I want to broaden children’s views of what music can be and maybe even inspire them to want to pick up an instrument.”

The musician and events manager added: “Music should be accessible to everyone regardless of age or income.

“It’s even more important that children have access to it as if they’re not inspired by music, where will the next generation of musicians come from?

“Just listening to music has an amazing impact on the brain, stimulating numerous areas which is great for a child’s development.”

Two shows have been organised to mark Big Little Gigs’ first anniversary.

In conjunction with the Jabberwocky Market festival, Conrad Murray and the Beatbox Academy will give a workshop and performance at the Friends Meeting House on Saturday, October 1

On Saturday ,October 22, the Blind Panic Ceilidh Band will perform at the group’s birthday bash at the St Augustines Centre.

Visit biglittlegigs.co.uk.