On 25th February, members enjoyed a detailed talk from Norman Bolton, the Head of Music Development at High Life Highland, the arms-length charity that manages the former culture and leisure services part of Highland Council.
Norman’s remit extends across provision of free lessons (4,100 each week), encouraging initiatives and opportunities, as well as developing pathways to let pupils participate in regional and national events. The latter include the National Youth Orchestra, the National Youth Chorus and National Youth Pipe Band. For individuals; the Young Musician of the Year, with heats at different levels.
We learned that the personal benefits of a musical education are many: cognitive development and educational success; discipline and time-management; social interaction and team-working; emotional wellbeing and stress relief; boosted confidence and self-esteem.
At a Highland-wide level there is a Highland Youth Wind Band, HY Chorus, HY String Orchestra, HY Big Band and Highland Region Youth Orchestra. The traditional side is well covered too with the High Life Highland Pipe Band, BEIRA and ‘Snas
Many lessons can take place online, thanks to the Highland Council’s IT system which is more flexible and robust than most other Councils in the country. Norman described the online tuition system as “innovative and sector-leading”, most encouraging when we often hear negativity about Highland Council.
Norman paid tribute to pupils, parents, teacher and instructors in Lochaber where musical activity is much greater than elsewhere in the Highlands and welcomed by a supportive community.
President David Mee said, “It was very encouraging to hear Norman tell us that there is more musical activity in Lochaber than in other parts of the Highlands, including Inverness. As often happens, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before and broke new ground, and I’m pleased to say that Lochaber Rotary has supported a range of musical initiatives, groups and individuals over many years.”
Rotarian Anthony Jones, father of talented clarsair Carys, a product of the High Life Highland school tuition system gave the vote of thanks in warm terms.
(The image shows Norman Bolton with musical Rotarians Sheana Fraser and John Hutchison)