International violin virtuoso, Nicola Benedetti, has taken time out of her busy global schedule to spend an afternoon with almost 250 school pupils from Ayrshire.

Gathering at the Grand Hall in Kilmarnock to celebrate the music of Robert Burns in an inspirational ‘String Day’ event, young musicians from South, East, and North Ayrshire brought along a variety of violins, various violas, several cellos and a even a double bass.

Guest artist Karen Powell led a series of workshops and master classes alongside string teaching staff from schools across Ayrshire.

Much to the delight of the talented pupils, Nicola Benedetti made her special appearance during the afternoon rehearsals and young musicians had the unique opportunity to work and play alongside the global star.

Pupils performed two new musical arrangements based on Scots Traditional Burns tunes Red Red Rose and Deil’s Awa wi’ the Exciseman, which were commissioned for the workshops by Scottish composer Stephen Adams.

Nicola said: “Ayrshire is my home county, where I grew up and where I received my first 6 years of musical experiences.

"I have so much love for the people and music-making in Ayrshire and am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with such a large group of students.

"We must protect music education in Ayrshire, and continue to fund the free tuition currently on offer.

“Music helps us communicate with each other and deal with all the invisible elements of life.

"This is a necessary investment into the wellbeing of our society.

"I am filled with gratitude towards each and every teacher spending their time with the complex and beautiful world of music and passing it onto the next generation.”

Douglas Hutchison, Director of Educational Services, South Ayrshire Council, said: “We’re proud to be supporting an event which we hope will mark the start of a varied career in music for our young people.

“We’re sure all those attending will be inspired by one of the UK’s finest musicians, with the session providing a fantastic opportunity to learn from the best.

“We’re committed to continuing to give pupils the chance to get involved in relevant events like these, which allow young people to get the most out of their general education.”

The event was jointly organised by Instrumental Music Services staff at East, North and South Ayrshire Councils and generously funded by the Ayrshire Music Festival.

The day ended with a short concert to share the day’s activities with parents and families.

The schools from South Ayrshire that took part are: Alloway, Ayr Grammar, Coylton, Doonfoot, Forehill, Glenburn, Heathfield, Holmston, Kingcase, St John’s, St Ninian’s, St Patrick’s, Struthers , Symington, Troon, Wellington