The aim is to work on the inhibitions boys feel about singing as they reach the upper stages of primary. At this stage, primary school choirs are predominantly female. Boys’ reluctance to take part also affects their participation in music in secondary. By offering all P7 boys (and some P6s) the experience, the organisers hope to reduce the embarrassment factor.

The workshop will be led by the National Boys Choir of Scotland (NYCoS), Changed Voice Choir and their director, Christopher Bell. Vox pops from actor Billy Boyd, journalist and broadcaster Stuart Cosgrove, comedian Fred McAulay and local footballers will reinforce the positive message about singing. The boys will be asked to evaluate the event and take it further, should they wish.

NYCoS is in discussions with Horse-cross, the company which runs Perth Concert Hall, and Perth and Kinross Council to create the first NYCoS boys’ regional choir in Scotland in Perth.