From Louise Raymond, Exeter 383578, July 4, 2008

SCHOOLS in the Tiverton area will be showcasing their musical talents this month, at a series of musical performances.

Pupils have been busy writing songs since April with the help of storyteller Sara Hurley, composer Elfyn Jones and singers Claire Anstee and Katy Baker. The project has involved the group visiting each primary school three times throughout the term, and each school group has written a song about an aspect of life in and around Tiverton. Students in years 9 and 10 from Tiverton High School are also writing music and songs inspired by the Flood of 1960 which swept through the town causing havoc in its wake.

The project reaches its culmination in a live outdoor performance at Tiverton High School on Friday 18 July at 1.25pm, when schools will come together to sing the Tiverton Song Cycle and celebrate singing in the Tiverton Learning Community. Instrumental groups from Tiverton High School will also help to make this event a stunning conclusion to the school year.

Tiverton's primary schools are also taking part in a big sing week (14- 18 July), where pupils can take part in three different workshops in three different schools. The Castle Primary School will host a Singing to be Healthy workshops (Monday 14), Two Moors Primary School will host African singing workshops (Monday 14) and St John's Catholic Primary School will host a Polish Singing workshop.

There will also be an opportunity for Tiverton families to join with Katy Baker and Claire Anstee in Westexe Park on Tuesday 15 July in the evening for a community singing session. (This will be held in Heathcoat Primary School if it rains).

Executive Member for Devon County Council's Children and Young People's Services, Cllr John Smith, said: "The Big Sing is already proving a huge success amongst Devon's school communities, and our music service is pleased to be involved in this national project.

"These events give children a tremendous opportunity to learn a new skill - whether that be songwriting or playing a musical instrument - as well as the chance to collaborate with their fellow students on a musical performance. I wish these events every success."

Devon County Councillor for Tiverton East, Cllr Des Hannon, said: "It's great to see Tiverton children embracing music and these projects are a fantastic way of bringing the fun of singing to a wider audience.

"As a former member of a cathedral choir I might even join in the community singing session myself - but will have to practice in the shower first!"

Ends

Cllr John Smith is available on 01626 772223.

Cllr Des Hannon is available on 01884 253627.ann