THOUSANDS of schoolchildren from across the county took part in a series of festive concerts.

Pupils from 110 schools celebrated the festive season with a programme of modern and traditional Christmas songs.

This was part of a project called the Big Sing.

They were conducted by former Brighton and Hove Music and Arts student Ashley Beauchamp, who now works as a professional conductor, award-winning pianist and vocal coach.

Peter Chivers, head of Brighton and Hove Music and Arts (BHMA) and East Sussex Music (ESM), said: “The Big Sing brings together children from across the region in a celebration of singing and music-making.

“Singing as part of a large choir is fantastic, not only for musical development but also to enhance a sense of connection with others and to boost wellbeing.”

Katie O’Shea, headteacher of St Michael’s Primary School in Hartfield, said: “The Big Sing is a fantastic opportunity for St Michael’s to show how we are developing our singing skills and enthusiasm for music.

“We all go home with huge smiles.”

This string of performances was part of BHMA and ESM’s Christmas series, which included the Schools Christmas Concert held at the Brighton Centre last week.

The show saw more than 1,200 children from primary, junior and special schools in Brighton and Hove sing a selection of seasonal and specially written songs. The choir was joined by Brighton and Hove Youth Wind Orchestra and Brighton and Hove Youth Big Band, creating a night to remember for the crowd who added to the special atmosphere.