Thousands of pupils in west Wales are being introduced to the world of opera and classical music in a new schools scheme.

The Welsh National Opera and its orchestra is taking music into the classroom to widen appeal and raise awareness to a younger audience.

Conductor Tugan Sokhiev: first schools concert

Two concerts were held in Swansea's Brangwyn Hall on Tuesday featuring the entire WNO orchestra which nearly one thousand pupils attended.

Musicians and singers have been visiting schools to conduct interactive workshops and performances.

Pupils create their own music to perform at school concerts and assemblies.

Jane Lloyd, music teacher at Whitestone primary school in West Cross, Swansea said the pupils are enjoying the experience.

She said: "They have been totally enthralled and engrossed.

"We've had the string quartet in school and the kids felt a real part of the concert because they recognised the musicians.

"We have a good music tradition in the school and it certainly gives the children something to aspire to.

The pupils enjoyed the concerts

"It is making the whole experience more accessible to them and makes them realise that everyone can get involved."

Sarah Alexander, director of WNO, said the project aims to break down barriers to allow as many children as possible to enjoy music.

She said: "It has enabled us to introduce many young children in Swansea to the power and wonder of live classical music.

"WNO has a huge resource of talent in its musicians and it is essential that we exploit that talent to the full in local communities.

"Members of the company get as much out of it as the children."

The concert was also the first time the orchestra's Russian music director, Tugan Sokhiev, had conducted a concert for schools.