A project which saw primary school children create songs for animated posters has scooped a top award for classical music.  

Children at Oakwood Primary School in Easterhouse along with Scottish contemporary musicians The Red Note Ensemble, have won an Ivor Novello prize for a project which explored anarchy - from a child’s point of view.  

During a year-long process of co-creation involving pupils, teachers, artists, and musicians, the school helped create seven animated video posters which were put to music by composer Brian Irvine.  

Titled A Children’s Guide to Anarchy, the posters explored themes of “anarchical” thinking such as autonomy, kindness and human connectivity. 

The project was named ‘Best Community and Participation composition’ at the awards this week, which celebrate the best new classical music and sound art by British, Irish and UK resident composers. 

Judges felt that the 'guide’ offered “a truly immersive experience for the young participants, beautifully integrating contemporary music” and that “the authentic voices of the children shone throughout, both in the creation and the performance, making their contributions feel genuine and integral”. 

While working on the project, Brian Irvine described it as one of the most rewarding of his career. 

He said: “The superpower of children is their ability to remind us of the core values of humanity, care, humour, and joy… values which in their honesty and depth, and simplicity feel increasingly anarchic within the context of an ever turbulent and confused world.  

“Their simple advice: “listen to your dog“ or “be nice” or “eat strawberries”, seems to poke at the heart of what we as a species are all about… these incredible children in this beautiful project illuminate the wondrous and reignite the deep sense of love and fun and care within us all.  

“It has been one of the most inspiring and authentic and enduring collaborations I have ever had the pleasure to be involved in.” 

Vanessa Thomson, Head Teacher of Oakwood Primary School said: “Being awarded the prestigious Ivor Novello Award is such an honour. Our whole school community is thrilled and delighted. I’m sure you could have heard the screams of excitement from Glasgow to London!

“We have a long and wonderful partnership with all at Red Note and Dumbworld. All our children have revelled in all the experiences we have benefited from by working with professional musicians, artists which have developed our creativity and connections to the world around us.

“This particular project meant that children co-created songs which allowed them to show autonomy and views about how to make the world a better place from their perspective.”

“Bringing the EMC to a wider stage has meant that all the pupils at Oakwood Primary in Easterhouse, Glasgow have a spotlight on them and their views, putting Oakwood pupils voice centre stage.

“Being recognised in this way is a huge boost to every child’s self-esteem, to their belief in the power of words and children’s voice. The fact that this was achieved in partnership with professionals who share their skills, craft and time so generously with us has given Oakwood a truly unique insight into the power of the Creative Arts, supporting ambition and achievement beyond the classroom walls. We are truly grateful for this opportunity.”

Tom Gray, Chair of The Ivors Academy, added: “The Ivors Classical Awards celebrate extraordinary accomplishments in contemporary classical music and sound art. Tonight, we honour the composers who are shaping our musical landscape. These awards underscore the Academy’s commitment to championing true originality and craft.” 

Roberto Neri, CEO of The Ivors Academy, said: “It’s an honour to see such remarkable talent recognised at The Ivors Classical Awards. This evening’s winners and nominees reflect the dynamic, evolving world of classical composition and sound art. We are proud to support composers who lead with passion and a profound dedication to connecting, challenging and inspiring us.”