Singing stars hit a high note with Songbirds show

YOUNG musician Daniel Jepson used a school concert to boost his confidence and give him an insight into a life on the stage.

The eight-year-old, from Bentilee, has been teaching himself the piano since he was four.

He is also a member of the City Songbirds choir and performed with them at The Victoria Hall last night.

It was the second of three concerts being held at the venue in Hanley this week, with around 600 children due to take part.

Daniel, who goes to Eaton Park Primary School, in Bucknall, said: "I love singing and playing the piano. It is fun.

"I like the sound of the piano, so I listen to different songs and try to learn how to play them.

"I'd love to be a musician when I get older.

"Taking part in concerts with Songbirds helps me to get more confidence and experience.

"It is exciting to get out on the stage."

Daniel performed last night with around 30 of his classmates and many more singers from other schools.

His potential has already impressed tutors.

Music teacher Alan Hayes said: "Daniel has a lot of potential and enthusiasm. He has got an excellent singing voice."

Other pupils taking part last night were from Hamilton Infants, in Birches Head, Maple Court Primary, in Bentilee, The Willows Primary, in Penkhull, Priory Primary, in Trentham, Norton Primary and Greenways Primary, in Stockton Brook.

Many of the youngsters have taken part in various Songbirds concerts, for five to eight-year-olds, since they began in 2002.

It was Anya Cliffe's last Songbirds concert, but she is due to move into the City Youth Training Choir, for older children.

The eight-year-old, from Stockton Brook, who attends Greenways Primary, said: "Songbirds has given me the opportunity to go on stage.

"It is kind of scary being in front of everyone. But I'm sad to do my last concert."

Isla Clarke, aged eight, from Wolstanton, who goes to The Willows, said: "I love performing in front of people and I think the songs are really good this year."

This year's concerts have a sporting theme to fit in with Euro 2012, Wimbledon and the Olympics.

Music teacher adviser Ruth Steele said: "The concerts have gone down very well.

"We have had good audience numbers and the children seem to have really enjoyed it."

The City Youth Wind Orchestra also performed last night.

Tonight's show starts at 6.45pm.

Tickets can be purchased before the start. They cost £6.50 for adults and £5 for children.

Family tickets admit two adults and two children and cost £18.

Read more about the Songbirds concerts in tomorrow's Sentinel