Only boys aloud at singing event

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The event aimed to teach the boys not to be embarrassed about singing

Up to 1,000 primary school boys have been taught about the joy of singing.

The primary seven youngsters have been taking part in an Only Boys Allowed workshop in Perth, aimed at tackling some of the inhibitions the lads feel.

Messages from well-known names in sport and film encouraged the youngsters to get involved in singing.

Seventy-two schools from across Perth and Kinross signed up for the event, which is thought to be the first of its kind in Scotland.

'Thrill of singing'

Jennifer Minchin, one of the organisers, said: "Boys often feel self-conscious as far as public performing is concerned as they reach the upper primary school years.

"This is reflected in the fact that primary school choirs are predominantly female. This can go on to affect boys' participation in music in secondary education.

"The purpose of Only Boys Allowed is to create a buzz about singing - it's fun and it can lead to a career or enjoyable social activity.

"The fact that all P7 boys in the region will share this experience will, in itself, reduce the embarrassment factor."

A message of support from Scots actor and Lord of the Rings star Billy Boyd was shown to the boys.

He said: "I think it's really important for boys of this age to be encouraged to be creative and to feel supported if they want to get involved in the arts, I know first hand some of the stigma attached to being of school age and wanting to perform.

"This is an incredible project and I know how fulfilling and fun it will be for all involved, whether they want to take their singing further or just take this one opportunity to feel the thrill of singing in a choir. I support this scheme wholeheartedly."