THE Big Noise children's orchestras do not need anyone to beat the drum for them - their success has been applauded many times before.
The charity behind the initiative, Sistema Scotland, could be forgiven for making a song and dance about the good news that coincided with the return from a tour to Venezuela - the country where the El Sistema system of intensive orchestral tuition originated - of more than 50 children from Raploch, Stirling.
The charity has been given £100,000 from the People's Postcode Lottery, a sum that will help it continue its work in offering life-enhancing experiences through music.
There are Big Noise orchestras in Raploch and also in Govanhill, Glasgow, with another being established in Aberdeen, with the result that more youngsters will be given the life-changing opportunities enjoyed by those from Raploch.
The programme aims to use music-making to foster confidence, teamwork, pride and aspiration in the children taking part, and across their wider community. Such commitment can only bring harmony to what can often be a discordant world.
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