HUNDREDS of children were given the opportunity to experience live music when a music roadshow paid a visit to a north Durham school.

Classic FM and its partners in music education, Yamaha, took the five-piece band Vision to the Hermitage School, in Chester-le-Street.

The band put on a performance featuring various music styles, including classical, pop and comedy, before pupils were given hands-on experience with instruments.

Sessions were also given at the school to 240 pupils from the town's Newker Primary School and about 100 from Bullion Lane Primary.

The schools tour is one of a number of projects Classic FM is spearheading as part of the Arts and Kids Week.

Launched in partnership with the Prince of Wales Arts and Kids Foundation, the initiative seeks to get children involved in and excited about all aspects of the arts.

Hermitage School lifelong learning co-ordinator Gill Dobson said: "It was a fantastic opportunity for the children. Part of the event was broadcast on Classic FM."

Ms Dobson said the school had been selected for a visit as it is a Yamaha school for keyboards and guitars - with two dedicated rooms running courses for adults in the evenings and used by pupils during the day.

Published: 09/10/2004