Todholm Primary School has been alive with music and creativity over the past six months, thanks to a unique after-school music class open to pupils from Primary 4 to Primary 7—and even two enthusiastic girls from Todholm Nursery, who joined in with their families.
Since January 16th, 2025, these young musicians have been working hard on a very special project: writing and recording an original song all about their school.
Led by the inspiring music teacher Scott MacDonald, the group learned not only how to sing and harmonise but also how to craft lyrics, understand musical structure, and play instruments. The children came up with the lyrics themselves, choosing words that captured the spirit and joy of life at Todholm Primary. Scott, alongside one of the pupils’ talented grandfathers, John, composed the music and accompanied the sessions on piano and acoustic guitar.
Each week, the sessions brought laughter, learning, and connection—not just for the children but for the parents too (who, in this case, happened to all be mums). Together, they rehearsed and refined the song, gaining confidence and having a brilliant time along the way.
This week marked the project’s grand finale: a professional recording session at Loud n Proud Studios. The excitement was electric as the children stepped into the studio, learning firsthand what it’s like to record vocals, layer harmonies, and bring a song to life. Scott said one of the most rewarding moments was hearing the children confidently sing in harmony—a milestone that made everyone beam with pride.
Scott MacDonald brought a wealth of experience to the project, having previously delivered music therapy in schools. He adapted his songwriting program to suit the Todholm community, encouraging creativity and collaboration between pupils and parents.
The initiative was made possible thanks to the generous support of Renfrewshire Council, which Scott was quick to praise. “The delight on the children’s and parents’ faces at the recording studio said it all,” he shared.
The finished song is expected to be released on SoundCloud around August 2025, pending permissions and approvals.
This project has not only given pupils a taste of professional music-making—it has also strengthened school community ties, boosted confidence, and shown what’s possible when creativity and collaboration come together in harmony.
Paisley Photographs 