WALES' children will have the chance to revive the country's reputation as the land of song under a scheme launched today.
The Assembly Government said it wants more opportunities for singing in the final two years of primary school and the first year of secondary school.
Education Minister Jane Hutt was due at the school of 12-year-old Shaheen Jafargholi, the Britain's Got Talent contestant who sang at Michael Jackson's memorial service in July, to announce £476,000 for a three-year programme.
Before a visit to Dylan Thomas Community School in Swansea, Ms Hutt said: "Singing gives people that feelgood factor, whether performing alone or as part of a group.
"Our exciting CanSing initiative is about helping to create confident, positive, motivated children who can express themselves creatively.
"We want to make our schools fully singing schools.’’ Teachers and other staff will get training in helping children sing in lessons and outside the classroom. The programme will begin working with 528 schools.
Opera star Bryn Terfel said: "I am pleased the Assembly Government is putting renewed focus on music within the school environment.
"Music is fundamental to how we live in the way it brings people together and broadens people's horizons.
"I hope that CanSing will help children all across Wales discover a love and passion for singing and music that will stay with them throughout their lives.’’
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