LYME REGIS: Young singers from across West Dorset raised the roof in B Sharp Voices, a showcase of local primary school vocal talent.

The first in a series of four concerts featuring young singers, it also included 92 primary school children from St Michael’s, Mrs Ethelston’s and Marshwood schools in Lyme, together with St Mary’s school in Bridport.

Each group sang an original song written in school workshops and then came together for a shared piece at St Michael’s Church in Lyme Regis.

The words and music were inspired by a visit to Beer Quarry Caves and included lines about smugglers, slaves, being trapped in time and more philosophical thoughts about working together, seeing the sun, friendship and being free.

B Sharp director Fran Williams said: “Each group gave a magnificent performance, raising the roof at the church and moving the audience to tears of laughter with moments of complete silence as soloists took centre stage and sent a range of emotions around the packed pews. Composer and music leader John Miles engaged all the children in such a way that each and every one of them gave it their all, singing from their hearts.

“Guest musician Adrianno Adewale lifted the whole event to another level with his expert percussion, while bassist Dave Mannington added a jazz edge to the truly professional and awe-inspiring proceedings.

“This concert was in the true spirit of collaboration, which is the essence of what B Sharp is about.”

Tracey Scott, teacher at Marshwood Primary, said there are 12 boys to eight girls in her class and having a male role model for singing proved ‘really significant’ for them.

Bridport St Mary’s School teacher Becky Rolfe added: “It has been brilliant to see my class grow in confidence, be proud of themselves and go from a shy group to a group of performers.”

At the same time that the popular concert was taking place in the church, another B Sharp project was running next door in The Hub, with an older age group of 45 young musicians who meet on a weekly basis.

Fran added: “The two events saw nearly 150 musicians playing live music in Lyme Regis on a Tuesday night, which reflects a significant achievement and a change in culture from seven years ago when B Sharp began.”

The next stage of the singing project, which is made possible by funding from Youth Music, West Dorset District Council and Lyme Regis Town Council, is for keen singers aged 11 up who want to build experience and confidence to work with professional vocal and music coaches.

There are two further concerts later this year at Bridport Arts Centre on December 6 and at Lyme’s Marine Theatre on December 7, as well as the finale in Exeter Cathedral in January.

For more details, email franwilliams@bsharp.uk.com