NEWLY appointed music teacher Katherine Cheney has clearly struck a chord with pupils.

Following her appointment last September as a music teacher and co-ordinator, Shottermill Junior School now boasts not just one but two choirs.

The main choir Harmony in Red has been joined by 97-strong all-male group Just us Boys, and both were on top form at the end of year concert, which featured not only the choirs, but the whole school in class performances.

“It’s a big passion of mine to get as many children involved in music as possible - and especially boys,” Katherine said.

“The concert the children did at school last week was fantastic and there was so much enthusiasm from the parents about the boys.

“Music, and singing in particular, is a fantastic way to include children of all abilities in an activity that allows them to feel special.

“It builds on their team work skills and individual confidence, and they discover that it’s an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience to perform in front of an audience.

“It can be more challenging to get boys involved. But boys--only groups can allow them to develop their confidence, and I am always keen to encourage this by letting the boys choose their own group name, outfit and songs. At 97 boys when full, Just Us Boys is the biggest boys group I have worked with so far.

“Both Just Us Boys, and Harmony in Red, have worked so hard with me this year and I was very proud of their amazing performance at the whole school concert.

“It is fantastic to have so many children involved in music at Shottermill Juniors.”