This summer young people across Ross and Cromarty are taking part in Careers Scotland's 'School of Rock'.

Careers Scotland (Ross and Cromarty), are hosting two-day modern music workshops in Dingwall Academy and Ullapool High School. 

The Dingwall workshop took place yesterday and today (5th and 6th August) and was a great success with 20 young people taking part.

Iain Eisner, senior careers adviser with Careers Scotland, said: "The event was very well attended and the young people mixed very well - music is a very sociable and enjoyable activity which breaks down barriers very quickly."

Next week on the 10th and 11th of August the School of Rock will be located in the MacPhail Centre, Ullapool High School.  There are still places available at the Ullapool workshop, it is free of charge and anyone interested in taking part should contact Iain Eisner, Louise Elphinstone or Veronica MacMillan on 01349 864914.

The workshops are aimed at 13-16 year olds with a growing interest in the world of music and in need of some direction, guidance and input to encourage their interest.

Describing the workshops Iain said: "The young people taking part don't need to be in a band, we hope to attract young people from many different backgrounds, we're certainly not targeting proficient musicians.

"The workshops highlight the range of careers available to musicians and show that the skills developed through music can be used in many different careers, throughout their lives.  Music can develop many valuable employability skills - self confidence, communication, team working, enterprise and so on." 

The students get input on performance, music technology, stage management, enterprise skills and visiting celebrities - John Sinclair, formerly of Ozzie Osbourne - has provided expert advice based on real life experiences in the industry.

Jim Hunter Music has worked with Careers Scotland on the workshops.  Jim said: "I have been really impressed with the interest shown by this group of young people.  Music has had a positive impact on my life and hopefully it can do the same for them.  The music industry in the Highlands and Islands is vibrant at the moment and these young people can help sustain that trend.  Workshops like this are very important."