A GROUP of Monmouthshire youngsters had a taste of rock and roll as they formed a band as part of the Summer Rock Academy.

The Monmouthshire Housing Association event’s (MHA) Summer Rock Academy which ran in partnership with Changing Minds and was tutored by Rock Academy Wales (RAW), took place at the Melville Theatre, Abergavenny. The week-long course introduced band members to the music world and not only gave themprovided the opportunity to play musical instruments and tobut also learn how to collaborate to write and produce a song.

Guitar player, Josh Proctor, aged13, said: “Learning the guitar was my favourite. I am a big country music fan and I learned chords from some of my favourite songs.”

The project, the first of its kind organised by MHA, aims to engage younger people and to promote confidence through music and positive self-image. Drummer, Zara Connikie, aged 15, said: “I feel so much more confident since Rock Academy. I don’t feel as nervous talking to people I don’t know. I have loved learning the drums.”

While Bassist Nicole Russell, aged 24, said she was very nervous when she first walked in but really enjoyed the Rock Academy. She learned to play the keyboard, drums, bass guitar and made new friends.

Singer / guitarist Greg Mclauchlan, aged 17, said: “I really enjoyed Rock Academy and want to continue practising with the band that we formed.”