YOUNG musicians from Alva were looking to bring a bit of Christmas magic to a Hillfoots care home last week.

The pupils were outside Menstrie House on Thursday, December 17, on what was a damp morning.

Undeterred, the sang and played music in the back gardens of the care home, staying at a safe distance, in a bid to entertain both residents and staff.

David Clifford, music teacher at the academy who organised the talent on the day, said: "Today sums up just why it is an honour and privilege to be both a musician and teacher at Christmas.

"To see the joy on the faces of the residents and staff and to watch them sing along while smiling and dancing was magical.

"Our pupils truly loved the experience and we cannot wait to get back to rehearsing and performing in our care homes as soon as is safely possible."

The event came after the talented young people launched a virtual concert, as reported last week, in the form of a series of videos with their festive recordings.

The series of online videos, being spread out across 12 days with two appearing as one upload each day, culminated in the release of the academy's song Sending You a Smile This Christmas.

All the pieces have been looking to raise people's spirits following what has been a difficult 2020 for many.

A range of care homes, not just in the Wee County but much further afield, have also been screening the videos for residents – but Menstrie House was lucky to be treated to a live performance.

Watch the videos by visiting Mr Clifford's YouTube channel at tinyurl.com/yyge46b4 or by following the school on Twitter @AlvaAcademy.