Yarm School students are on song after helping to move the final pieces of equipment into their brand new £3m music school.
Eager pupils have finally been able to move their instruments into the state-of-the-art structure, after watching it grow from the foundations over the past year.
Yarm School headmaster David Dunn said: “It’s incredible to see, and most importantly hear, our students performing in our new music school. There’s a real buzz in the building, with practice sessions and performances taking place everywhere you turn.”
The new music school further enhances Yarm School’s already strong reputation for the performing arts. The school houses specialist music classrooms, 10 instrumental tuition rooms, a drumming suite and a high-tech recording studio. In addition, there is a 140-seat lecture theatre with cutting-edge designed retractable seating, making it a truly flexible performance venue.
Contractors from Darlington-based Wharton Construction worked round the clock during the summer holidays to make sure the structure was ready for the autumn term.
The completed contemporary building now sits next to the Grade II-listed Friarage building and is linked to the existing school with a three-storey glass stairwell. It has been designed by Associated Architects, the same firm behind the school’s award-winning Princess Alexandria Auditorium.
Mr Dunn said: “The design of the new music school complements the Friarage, it is great to see it finished and emblazoned with the Yarm School crest.
“Performing arts are flourishing at Yarm School with professional music tuition available on every level for a vast range of instruments.
“Many of our pupils have gone on to study at renowned music and theatre schools. Just recently Kieran Johnson and Charlie Vasiliou were accepted to study at the prestigious Academy of Contemporary Music, in Guildford, Surrey. This investment will help more of our students to fulfil their musical ambitions.”