Big Noise Wester Hailes has around 850 children signed up for the new term.
New Edinburgh South Western MSP, Simita Kumar, visited to see for herself the work that the music and social change programme does in the area. Ms Kumar, and Cllr Fiona Glasgow, met some of the young participants who learn to play instruments during and after school, and then play in an orchestra. Schools involved include Canal View, Clovenstone and Sighthill Primary and Nursery Schools.
There is also an after school club and more than 100 children attended the holiday clubs run during the summer.
This is Sistema Scotland’s newest centre and has been teaching music to children there since 2022. In August Big Noise Wester Hailes played alongside the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (YOLA).
The teaching of a musical instrument also helps children to gain confidence and creativity. The formation of the orchestra nurtures community spirit and stronger relationships between the children taking part.
There have been several studies which show that participation in the Big Noise project can improve academic attainment, and feelings of self-esteem, belonging and happiness.
Vicky Williams, chief executive of Sistema Scotland, said: “It was great to welcome Simita Kumar to Big Noise and to show her around the centre. The young people here have so many amazing stories to tell.
“Some of the children have only been involved with Big Noise for a few years, and have already performed side-by-side with the RSNO, played events in the Scottish Parliament, and just a couple of weeks ago performed at the Edinburgh International Festival.
“We’re proud to share this news with local representatives and celebrate the hard work of all the young people, musicians, and staff here at Big Noise Wester Hailes.”
Simita Kumar, MSP for Edinburgh South Western, said: “It was brilliant to meet the young musicians of Big Noise Wester Hailes and congratulate them on their exciting recent performance at the Edinburgh International Festival, and all of their musical achievements.
“I really enjoyed coming out to see and hear such talented local children playing their instruments, and to see the positive impact Big Noise is having here.”
Sistema Scotland has established six Big Noise centres in communities in Scotland with more than 4,100 children taking part in communities from Douglas in Dundee, Raploch and Fallin in Stirling, Torry in Aberdeen, Govanhill in Glasgow, and Wester Hailes in Edinburgh.
