The Holy Name Parish Centre in Jesmond will host a free Rock Project Music Extravaganza for 7-18-year-olds on Tuesday between 1 and 6pm, as part of the half-term school holidays.

The Rock Project is a school for contemporary children’s music tuition, with franchises set up all over the country, including in Newcastle.

Jesmond man Paul Gibson set up the Newcastle franchise and offers lessons in drum, bass and guitar to students in groups of no more than five.

The Music Extravaganza will provide a taste of each instrument the school provides lessons for, with demonstrations by both teachers and pupils, and finally a chance for the kids to have a go themselves.

The main genre of music played will be rock, with covers of well-known songs including Back in Black by ACDC and Seven Nation Army by the White Stripes. More contemporary songs by artists such as Olly Murs will also feature.

The songs will contain simple and recognisable riffs to provide a good start for beginners.

The event is free and will be split into two sections based on age group. The first session from 1-3:30pm is for juniors, aged 7-11 years old, whilst the second session between 3 and 6pm will be for 12-to-18-year-olds.

Guest performer Paul Rose, a virtuoso rock and blues guitarist, will provide entertainment and masterclass demonstrations  in the periods between sessions.

Paul Gibson said this free taster event would be ‘”a great opportunity for children of all ages and abilities to try out rock music instruments.”

He often encourages his students to set up their own bands outside of lessons, and hopes the group format of teaching will allow the children “to become more motivated by interacting with one other”.

Call Ruth or Paul Gibson for more information and to book a place on 0191 2819514/07802234843, or alternatively email newcastle@therockproject.com.