AN innovative scheme is set to change the way people across Tees Valley make music.

The Sound Pod, based at the Tees Valley Music Service (TVMS) on Bishopton Road West, Stockton, is the first of its kind in the UK and consists of twelve area pods.

Each pod has an electronic drum kit and percussion pad, keyboard, bass guitar and lead guitar which are all linked to a central console control desk.

From the control desk the teacher can instruct students on an individual or group basis through headphones.

Web based images are also projected on to a wall to show, for example, the exact fingering patterns for guitars and keyboards.

Now schools across the Tees Valley can take advantage of this facility as well as members of the community and plans are also being made for family sessions.

Students will be able to learn to play musical instruments, learn to read music and progress through music grades.

The inspiration for Sound Pod came from Stockton and Hartlepool Area Development Co-ordinator for TVMS, Dan Jones, who is the current UK Peripatetic Music Teacher of the year.

Mr Jones said: "Sound Pod is a dream teaching and learning environment and with it comes more opportunities for everyone to learn how to play a musical instrument.

"Not only that, but it offers the opportunity for youngsters to meet and make music together.

"I am particularly excited we are opening the Sound Pod nearly a year to the day I received my award as Music Teacher of the Year at the Royal Albert Hall.

"Sound Pod has certainly caught the imagination of global session musician Craig Blundell and we are delighted this tremendously inspiring musician is coming along to show his support."

Councillor Alex Cunningham, Stockton Councils cabinet member for children and young people said: "Sound Pod has to be seen to be believed. It holds so many possibilities and is a fantastic new way for groups of students or individuals to learn music.

"It will give a tremendous boost to the teaching of music across the Tees Valley not only for our schoolchildren but to all members of the community." For more information and to book a taster session on the Sound Pod call TVMS on 01642-603600.