A GROUP of schoolchildren became stars for a day when they took part in a songwriting project headed by a local artist.

Children from Primary 4, 5 and 6 at Pirie Park Primary on Glasgow's south side took part in a workshop run by Scots singer-songwriter Michaela Foster Marsh, who has written songs for film and television, most notably TV hit Dawson's Creek.

She helped the Govan youngsters write two songs for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the Olympic Games, which will be released as a CD named after the songs' titles, Celebrate and Taking Part.

Foster Marsh said: "It's educational because we're talking about the Jubilee, the Queen, the Olympics and what it all means.

"So you're breaking it all down then writing the song and trying to get the kids to understand song structure.

"It's also a fabulous opportunity to learn about the realities of the songwriting process and the music business, which I have been keen to teach as well. It can be tough going in the arts.

"But, of course, getting to record in a great studio is the icing on the cake for the kids. We had nothing like that at school.

"It has been a wonderful project. They engaged creatively and worked hard. They sound great and have been a really great bunch."

The project was funded by Glasgow City Council Education Services and was the first of its kind for the school.

Once their songs have been mixed and mastered, they want to send them on to Gary Barlow of Take That, who is also writing a song for the Queen's Jubilee, and the Queen herself.

Headteacher Jane Arthur said: "This was the first time our children and teachers attempted songwriting, so it was wonderful to work with a real musician and songwriter. Michaela was the ideal partner to help bring the children's ideas to life.

"They thoroughly enjoyed their visit to the Riverside Studios, where they were treated like real pop stars.

"We hope that people will enjoy listening to our songs as much as the children enjoyed creating them."

Pupils from Govan High School were also involved with their music teacher Elaine Bonner.

The youngsters will be performing their songs at a school concert in June and music videos of the kids will be included on the CD.

fiona.mckay@ heraldandtimes.co.uk

'