Q What did you find the most useful part of the project?

A It was an opportunity to work with professional musicians in a field of music with which we have had little experience. It therefore helped to bring to life an area of study specified within the GCSE and A level examination courses studied and gave students the opportunity to work with the raw materials under the guidance of performing artists. This not only enhanced the courses the students were following but also gave staff INSET.

Q Did the project help to enhance the curriculum and if yes, how?

A The students involved were able to engage in performing, listening and composing - still the three central pillars in any music curriculum - and the Bollywood Brass Band fitted really well into Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 schemes of work. At KS4 (GCSE) in particular it really helped students engage in aspects of music that might otherwise be approached through books, CDs and so on - which is fine, but nothing like the real thing! The project also enhanced the 'greater curriculum' - citizenship, personal development etc.

Q What would you change about the project for the future?

A Nothing really, except perhaps to have a look at exposing it more to KS3 students - time and logistics prevented this.

Q Would you recommend the project, if yes why?

A Totally - I could only fully recommend any schools to contact the Bollywood Brass Band for workshops - it's something totally out of the 'norm'. Vibrant and exciting - it cannot fail to engage students. The project as we ran it encompassed performance skills, composition, improvisation, cultural awareness and was totally inclusive - and also escaped a 'label' - because the music is such a wonderful fusion of so many different genres and styles it meant we didn't promote it as a ticking boxes, 'world' music project.

Q How did your school fund the project?

A The first year was funded through our 'Networked Learning Community', a national programme encouraging schools to work across phases to create a full and coherent 5 - 18 curriculum, particularly focusing on the transition from Key Stage 2 to 3. The second year was funded through our Arts College status. The evening concert, which ended each project, also drew some income.

Q Do you have any other comments or suggestions?

A I have to say the band are a pleasure to work with and really responded to our requests regarding what we wanted out of it rather than just coming with a set agenda - this helped tailor the three days very closely to meet our needs.