ARDGOWAN Primary pupils are playing their part in a masterclass in music thanks to the world famous violinist Nicola Benedetti.

Youngsters in the school are joining in with pupils from across the area for a special week-long session with the foundation set up by the Grammy award-winning musician.

Around 2,500 young people in primaries four to seven are taking part in a series of expert workshops this week delivered by the musician’s charitable organisation, the Benedetti Foundation, in partnership with the council’s music service.

Inverclyde is one of just 13 areas in the UK and Ireland to host a residency this year and there will also be sessions for around 170 young strings players, training for almost 50 local primary teachers and an event for music instructors.

Among those excited to be taking part is Ardgowan P6 pupil Pollie Fleming, who has watched Nicola play and even got a special autograph from the star.

The 10-year-old said: "My dad Jonathan was a minister in Largs and Nicola Benedetti came to his church.

"She was amazing and my sister Rachel played with her and she signed my violin.

"I love learning to play the violin and we can't wait to take part in the music week."

A number of her classmates are also taking part, including cello-playing Iona Quigley, who is following in the same musical direction as her big sister Nuala, 12.

She added: "I love the sounds it makes and we always get to learn new pieces of music."

Ardgowan has an orchestra full of musical talent with Oliver Bjonness, of P5, recently taking up the violin.

He said: "I love it so far, but I am looking forward to learning more."

School head Emma Picken believes the Benedetti sessions will build on the work done at the school to nurture budding musical maestros.

Mrs Picken said: "We have lots of opportunities for our pupils to showcase their musical talents at assemblies and other occasions and they get the chance of tuition.

"It is fantastic to see how it helps with confidence and learning in other areas of the curriculum."

During the primary workshops, young people will explore rhythm, pitch, listening and singing.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s convener of education, said: “It is a fantastic coup for Inverclyde to be selected to host a Benedetti Residency and it will be a wonderful learning opportunity for our young people and great fun at the same time.

“It will also be an excellent experience for our young strings players, staff and music instructors to learn from experts from the Benedetti team.

“Nicola Benedetti is one of Scotland’s most talented and celebrated musicians and her success has inspired so many musicians and the work of her charitable foundation through events like this will only encourage more young performers to follow their dreams.”