A MUSIC group with a brand new offer to parents and children alike will start up after half term in Okehampton.

Run by Wren Music and based at their new home in North Street, The Family Roots Music Group is opening its doors from February 23.

Two of Wren’s professional team will be providing the musical input and running the sessions. Paul Wilson is a multi-instrumentalist and singer and works for Wren Music and beyond, while guitarist and singer Dave Rich is taking a break from his pop and rock gigs to come off the road and be a music leader for this project. Between them they cover a staggering range of repertoire for group members to come get stuck in.

’It won’t just be old songs and tunes,’ said Dave. ’We’re really keen and committed to writing new pieces with group members, too.’

Paul said: ’This is a bit of a departure for Wren. We’re well known for our youth and adult folk music programmes, but this will push the boundaries in a really exciting way.’

The group will meet in Okehampton on Tuesdays for five sessions starting at 4.30pm on Tuesday, February 23 and run till the end of term.

Paul said: ’We’ll see where we are at that point and if there’s the enthusiasm we’ll be running in on into the summer.’

The group provides an opportunity to develop musical skills, make new friends, play instruments, and enjoy using your voice, as well as taking part in performances. A typical session involves fun and active warm-ups, learning an exciting range of ear-catching songs from around the world, practising useful singing techniques, plus learning how to sing in harmony.

Participants can bring their own instrument or borrow one from Wren. There is no need to read music but scores and sheet music is provided if you want to learn that way. Learning by ear is fantastic for developing aural skills and memory.

For more information, or to book, please contact Wren Music on 01837 53754, or e-mail Paul on [email protected] The cost is £5 per session for parent and first child, second child £1, unaccompanied children over eight years old - £3

Sessions start Tuesday, February 23 from 4.30pm – 6.00pm in Ebenezer Hall on North Street.