The YMI Programme in Aberdeenshire brings the joy and creativity of music to life for primary school pupils through an incredible range of projects delivered to whole classes. From the enchanting melodies of Kodály singing to the stirring sounds of bagpipes, the rhythmic energy of djembe drumming, and the fun of learning ukulele, our programme offers something for every young musician.
But we don’t stop there — Aberdeenshire’s YMI programme is at the forefront of innovation, promoting experimental electronica and cutting-edge music technology. Young people are empowered to become creators, not just performers, as they compose original digital soundtracks for their own films and animations, collaborating closely with professional artists. This hands-on, imaginative approach helps pupils discover new ways to express themselves, build confidence, and develop skills that will last a lifetime.
Every project is designed to inspire curiosity, nurture talent, and celebrate the diverse world of music—making every classroom a place where creativity thrives and every child’s musical journey is valued.
Fèis Rois is nationally acclaimed for its leadership in the arts, especially music education. Through their partnership with us, they introduce primary schools across an entire network to the richness of traditional music and culture. Their project supports pupils through key life transitions, using music as a powerful medium to share stories, express emotions, and connect with history. See what they got up to last year in Fraserburgh by clicking on this button.Feis Rois 2024-25
Primary Pupils seated in a semi-circle in a classroom, each playing a drum during a Drumfun Session.
Meanwhile, Jenny Sturgeon and Adam Ross bring something truly special to rural primary schools with their project Where I Am. This cross-curricular adventure invites children and their teachers to step outside and explore the nature, ecosystems, and landscapes surrounding their school. Music is at the heart of the experience, but it also weaves in environmental learning, creative writing, and outdoor education—supporting health and wellbeing while sparking imagination. The songs created by pupils in previous years are nothing short of magical—click the button below to hear them for yourself!
YMI funding in Aberdeenshire doesn’t just bring music into classrooms—it also empowers the people who teach it. Through dynamic and hands-on sessions, Steve Sharpe's "Beat It!" project delivers high-energy drumming and percussion workshops that captivate pupils and inspire creativity. But the impact goes beyond the pupils: teaching staff benefit from additional Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions, giving them the confidence and skills to carry on delivering music sessions long after the project ends. It’s a brilliant way to build lasting musical capacity within schools.
Drake Music Scotland is transforming music education for children with significant, severe, and complex additional support needs across Aberdeenshire. Through the creative use of technology and bespoke resources, every child is given the chance to compose and perform their own music—no matter their starting point. This inspiring project is delivered in all of Aberdeenshire’s Integrated Community Resource Hubs and Special Schools, ensuring that every pupil can experience the joy of making music in a way that’s tailored to them.
The impact is truly remarkable: children who might otherwise face barriers to participation are empowered to express themselves, connect with others, and discover their own musical voice. Drake Music Scotland’s work is a celebration of inclusion, creativity, and the limitless possibilities of music.
Want to see this in action? Watch the Drake Music Scotland Documentary to experience the difference this project is making in schools and communities across Aberdeenshire.
A group of children smiling and singing as part of the Whistling Away project.
"Zoltán Kodály was a Hungarian composer and educator who fundamentally believed that music education should belong to everyone and that singing should be at its centre. Kodály inspired music education is a child friendly game based approach which is systematic and well structured.
Involvement in a Kodály inspired music education curriculum potentially raises the standard of music education, helping to bridge the gap from school to studying at university or conservatoire level.
Research has shown that good music education involving active singing participation will not only help develop musical skills but will also enhance numerical, linguistic and social skills.
The Kodály approach is used in many schools, universities and choirs across Scotland not just within NYCOS. Our Active Learning through Music programme links directly with the outcomes of Curriculum for Excellence."
This was taken from the NYCOS Website. If you'd like to read more, click on this button
Colourful drawing with musical notes on a rainbow staff, a person in red overalls raising their arms, and various music-related items like a guitar, headphones, and bagpipes.