HUNDREDS of budding violinists tuned up with a mass masterclass yesterday.

Children from ten primary schools took part in a series of workshops with tutor Jeremy Matthews, which culminated in a performance at Hill View Infant School, in Sunderland.

Since October, the youngsters have been involved in a pilot project that has helped to develop the talent of pupils new to the violin.

Schools' music development co-ordinator Chris Little said: "The project has been a huge success and the pilot will actually be increased next year.

"Almost all of the children have stayed with the project, and it is their enthusiasm, learning what can be a difficult instrument to play, which has made it such a pleasure to be involved with.

"Everyone learns at different pace, but they have all improved considerably."