THESE youngsters were hitting the high notes to celebrate the launch of Glasgow's Big Noise Orchestra.

The charity Sistema Scotland has set up a concert orchestra with youngsters in Govanhill, similar to the highly-successful scheme it runs in the Raploch area of Stirling.

Primary pupils showed off their musical skills at two outdoor concerts in Govanhill Park.

Richard Holloway, chairman of Sistema Scotland said: "We hope the whole community can get behind this orchestra.

"The children are bursting with enthusiasm and potential. In 10 weeks we have formed an impressive string orchestra.

"Over time we will bring in woodwind, brass and percussion to form a full symphony orchestra. Not only will it produce wonderful music, it will transform lives."

Big Noise is an orchestra programme that aims to use music-making to foster confidence, teamwork, pride and aspiration in the children taking part – and across their wider community.

It is based on the methods of Venezuela's El Sistema movement.

The first Big Noise centre was established in Raploch, Stirling in 2008 and now works with 450 children, from babies to teens.

Big Noise Govanhill's team of eight musicians have been working with Primary 1 and 2 children at Cuthbertson, St Bride's, Holy Cross and Annette Street primaries for the last 10 weeks.

A total of 400 children performed for local people and invited guests in a marquee in Govanhill Park.

The P2 children are now invited to a summer school at the orchestra's base at Forsyth House, Coplaw Street, and after-school orchestra sessions will run at the centre when the 2013-14 school year starts.

Sistema Scotland came to Govanhill thanks largely to the efforts of Govanhill Housing Association and Govanhill Community Development Trust.

Chairwoman Lyn Ewing added: "As soon as we heard what they were doing in Raploch we thought this could be a great thing for Govanhill.

"After a visit to see the children rehearsing, we became convinced we had to have our own Big Noise.

"This is a great day for Govanhill and Glasgow."

catriona.stewart@ eveningtimes.co.uk