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A CLASSICAL music concert for babies hit the high notes in Preston recently and was an overwhelming success and a wonderful experience, according to two senior county councillors. The Lancashire Sinfonietta's Mini-Mozart Concert took place at Ashton Methodist Church in Ashton on Ribble last week. The concerts, funded by Lancashire County Council, are designed specially for babies, aged 0-18 months, and are a light-hearted introduction to the world of music for tiny ears - a fun place where babies and parents can share the joy of music together. Over 40 concerts have been programmed at children's centres and community venues across Lancashire whereby the county's new-borns are promised a very musical start in life. The concerts have been designed to introduce classical music to the tiniest ears and encourage parents and carers to learn about how music can help their child's development, nurture a closer relationship and even tackle underachievement in later years. County Councillor Jennifer Mein, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and County Cllr Tom Burns of Preston North West, were among the audience keen to enjoy the interactive music session for young families. County Cllr Mein said: "I thoroughly enjoyed the concert. It was fascinating to see how the babies, toddlers and parents reacted and responded to the different rhythms and sound levels. It's a fantastic way to introduce classical music to the young. I would like to thank the very talented musicians of the Sinfonietta for their time and involvement in this programme." County Cllr Burns added: "The babies were very receptive and stimulated by the beautifully played music in an informal and relaxed atmosphere. We all took part waving our ribbons and rattles to the music. The tiny ones joined in as soon as they realised the rattles were not for eating. It was wonderful to see so many young families there enjoying themselves as a group." The sessions are free to attend thanks to sponsorship from Classic FM and Lancashire County Council. Every baby takes home "My First Classical CD" with games and information about the benefits of music in Early Years. The Lancashire Sinfonietta is a unique professional chamber orchestra comprising over 80 'home-grown musicians', supported by Lancashire County Council. For more information visit online at http://www.lancs-sinf.com/ www.lancashire.gov.uk |
