BUDDING young musicians from the Southside finally performed in person at an "inspirational" community concert.

For the pupils of Big Noise Govanhill, this was their first community performance since 2019, leaving "not a dry eye in the house".

At Elim Church in Govanhill, the Big Strings group, Wind Band, Concert Band and United Orchestra enthralled the audience of invited guests.

Glasgow Times: Big Noise Govanhill has had its first community concert since 2019

Samira, whose two children attend Big Noise Govanhill, said: “We’re so proud to see our children playing their instruments; it’s lovely to have this experience again.

"Perhaps one day they will perform in a big orchestra, like the BBC SSO.

"Today, it was just so beautiful to see the children perform together after such a long time.”

Attended by parents, carers and family members, the concert marked an exciting high point in a challenging year.

The children and young people who attend Big Noise Govanhill performed Up in the Morning Early by Robert Burns, Danza Africa by Victor Lopez and Wisteria Waltz by Richard Meyer.

Glasgow Times: Big Noise Govanhill has had its first community concert since 2019

When 2021 began, the children were unable to rehearse together as a group at Big Noise Govanhill due to the pandemic.

With the return of face-to-face teaching and group lessons in a Covid-safe environment later in the year, the children have been able to come together again to rehearse.

Ali Gornall, Head of Centre for Big Noise Govanhill, said: “The children and young people at Big Noise Govanhill have worked so hard this year.

Glasgow Times: Big Noise Govanhill has had its first community concert since 2019

"Their dedication and resilience is inspiring.

"I am delighted that we were able to finish the year with our first community concert since 2019.

"This concert is a testament to all their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

"Seeing the joy on the children’s faces as they performed for their family members was amazing.

“I want to thank all of the children and young people and the Big Noise Govanhill staff team.

Glasgow Times: Big Noise Govanhill has had its first community concert since 2019

"I also want to thank all the schools and teachers that we work with, our partners, funders and the community of Govanhill.”

Big Noise supports children and young people to reach their full potential through music and nurturing relationships.

A wide range of partners and funders support Big Noise Govanhill, including players of People’s Postcode Lottery, Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government and Bank of Scotland Foundation.

Glasgow Times: Big Noise Govanhill has had its first community concert since 2019

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “It was wonderful to see the children and young people of Big Noise Govanhill return to the stage and perform for the community for the first time since 2019.

"I’m sure there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

“Sistema Scotland does such important work, bringing communities together and connecting with children, young people and families across Scotland.

"We are delighted that players of People’s Postcode Lottery have supported Big Noise Govanhill’s ability to resume face-to-face teaching and group lessons.”