Children at Song Box musical play sessions have been enjoying a close up introduction to the saxophone this term.

Young instrumentalists Mollie Taylor and Dafydd Williams have visited each of the 20 Song Box groups around York, showing the children how the saxophone is put together, and playing tunes for them to dance, play and sing along to. Mum and child minder Kate Timms followed up the visit by getting out recorders and whistles when she and her children got home. "Lewis and Cormac were realy interested in how the saxophone worked and the mechanics of it".

Song Box's founder, Thea Jacob, says "it is always magical to watch the children's reactions as the instruments are assembled and played right down at their level. We've had all sorts over the years, strings, woodwind and brass plus accordions, folk harp and even some gamalan! Often the adults in the groups haven't had the chance to see these instruments up close before either. The visits all add to our commitment to making music live, real and exciting for families and young children".

Two year old Katie Teesdale was realy into the groove. "It was amazing!" said her mum Tracey. "I was telling everyone about how Katie was dancing when Dafydd played a jazzy piece. Katie does ballet but she's never danced to jazz before!"

Song Box provides weekly musical play sessions for 0-4 year olds with their parents and carers at many venues around York. For more information about their regular classes and the special instrumental visits and musical outings they provide contact Thea Jacob on 01904 634390 or email tjsongbox@yahoo.co.uk

Updated: 15:21 Friday, December 09, 2005