A free music tuition project for children from deprived parts of Scotland has received a glowing report for its "potential to transform lives".

Big Noise, run by Sistema Scotland, operates in four underprivileged areas in the country, giving youngsters the chance to learn an instrument which would not be affordable for many of the families.

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Three programmes - in Raploch, Stirling; Govanhill, Glasgow and Torry, Aberdeen - were reviewed by Education Scotland in April.

The new report highlights a sense of pride shown by those taking part, an ability to "transform lives" and boost to learning for those in their early years.

Nicola Killean, chief executive of Sistema Scotland, said: "I am delighted that the Education Scotland report has recognised our key strengths and highlighted the commitment and quality of the staff team and the child-centred approach.

"Big Noise is about using music as a tool to engage with children and young people and it's the quality of people we recruit and train, and the relationship they build with the children, families and communities that allows us to have maximum impact."

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Events including orchestra performances, birthday concerts and sharing sessions are used to help generate a "sense of pride" among children, parents, families and others.

A number of recommendations were also made in the report, including community development, monitoring of progress and joint planning.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop said: "Sistema Scotland is making a significant and positive impact, improving the lives of the children and young people involved in the programme and benefitting their families and the wider communities in Raploch, Govanhill and Torry.

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"I am pleased that the Scottish Government's £2.5 million investment is helping ensure more young people can benefit from Sistema Scotland's creative and empowering approach and I welcome the news of the development of the new Big Noise Douglas centre in Dundee, which will enable more children to access Sistema Scotland's outstanding teaching, effective learning and inclusive opportunities."

The organisation's fourth Big Noise centre in Douglas, Dundee, is not included in the Education Scotland report as it opened in September 2017, after the Education Scotland review was carried out.