MUSICAL maestros from Port High took to the stage in their own homes for a showstopping virtual concert.

Singers and instrumentalists from the school haven't seen each other in class for four months due to coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

The young people had to cancel their annual concert in March - but they were determined that people should still see what they've been working on.

Principal of music Julie Ballantyne and music teachers Craig Hart and Kirstin Fraser worked with pupils to pull the spectacular showcase together.

The concert, which is just over an hour long, has already been viewed 400 times on YouTube.

Mr Hart said he was thrilled by the response he received from pupils throughout the project.

He added: "When lockdown hit, we left it a few weeks and then I began to wonder if there was a way we could do a virtual thing.

"I contacted the pupils and asked them how they would feel about filming a musical performance at home.

"They were all really interested.

"I was delighted that we got so many videos and we were able to piece them all together to create a concert.

"The videos were a good way for us to see what the kids have been up to during lockdown as well.

"It was a nice way to keep in touch with them and make sure they're doing okay.

"The kids are really happy with it.

"It's great for them to see each other as they hadn't been in class since March."

Port High's musicians usually tour care homes across Inverclyde and to make sure residents aren't missing out, Craig and the team have recorded the concert, transferred it onto DVDs and sent it out to homes including Bagatelle, Newark and Quarriers.

Mr Hart says the standard of playing at the school is high and he is very proud that a group of pupils will be heading to the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland to study in the next academic year.

He added: "It's a really strong department and we've got a really high standard of players.

"The young people are really nurtured and they want to get involved in the bands and groups.

"Music is so important, especially in difficult times, and it's been great for the young people to have their music to turn to in lockdown."