YOUNGSTERS in the Reading area are learning to 'face the music' at a new music school called the Rock Project.

As part of a nationwide network,running for the past ten years,local Rock Project leader Harmmet Nandra has opened several local academies in Tilehurst,Thatcham and Wargrave with another due to open in Burghfield next month.

Teaching sessions are formed into small groups each led by a locally based musicians and include electric guitar and bass tutorials,plus drums and vocals.

Talking to the Chronicle at a session in Meadow Park Academy,Tilehurst,Harmeet Nandra said:

“We have been up and running for six weeks now and it is great to see our pupils enjoying the learning process and performing together.There are no entry requirements and we see starters with varying experience and performance levels.”

“We only employ local musicians as tutors and this will continue as we grow-our pupils are quickly gaining confidence with their performance skills and technique.”

“The children want to be here and are enjoying learning and performing together-the camaraderie with each other is great to see”.

With a maximum of 25 sessions the pupils will be able to perform in front of family and friends at a special concert next July.

Some pupils have started their own new rock bands as a consequence of meeting other musicians at the Rock Project sessions and local guitarist Charlie Walford,12 told the Chronicle:”My mum signed me up for the free trial and I enjoy coming here every week.I only had an acoustic guitar at home-with one string broken but I play all the time.My favourite bands are Nirvana,Oasis and the Foo Fighters-the best thing I have learnt so far is how to use power chords”.

Learning to play the electric guitar Dario Tucci,14 from Tilehurst also told the Chronicle:”I started playing two years ago and joined this scheme because I thought it would be cool to try out.I was very shy at first but since coming I have become much more confident”.

The courses run until June 2016 and for more information on the Rock Project visit:www.reading.therockproject.com