A new course in music technology is to be offered at Pitlochry High School from next year, thanks to support from Pitlochry Community Action Trust (PCAT) and a donation from the Heartland music festival. 

The Scottish Qualifications Music Technology course at National 3, 4 and 5 levels will be delivered by the school’s music department, complementing its existing music teaching and coursework offering. 

This exciting development has been made possible thanks to a donation of £2000 to Pitlochry High School from PCAT and the organisers of the Heartland music festival in recognition of PCAT’s support of and contribution to the volunteer effort at the popular event. 

The donation has also facilitated the purchase of some new musical instruments and equipment for the school. 

Chair of PCAT, Judith Dingwall, commented: “We are absolutely delighted that our support of the Heartland festival in Pitlochry has allowed us to in turn support Pitlochry High School to deliver a new course that will make a real difference to many young people in our community.  

“We are so lucky to have a school of the calibre of Pitlochry High School, and, at a time when other communities are losing resources, it is great that our school is able to expand its offering, both in terms of the courses on offer and the facilities proposed as part of the £8.7million being invested in its upgrade.

“The Heartland Festival has been a wonderful addition to the events calendar here in Pitlochry and we are proud to have supported this homegrown event from the beginning.

“Facilitating connections in this way is a great example of how positive action, organisations working together and the existence of a local development trust can create real benefits for communities.”

The music technology course is designed to enable pupils to develop skills in and knowledge of using music technology software and hardware in a practical and experiential way, and provides a pathway for those who want to progress to higher levels of study in this area. 

Mrs Liney is the headteacher at Pitlochry High School. She said: “We are hugely grateful to PCAT and the Heartland Festival for their support of the school and in particular the music department. 

“This will be the first time we have been able to offer the music technology course, which we’re sure will appeal to pupils with an interest in music, and we’re excited to see it develop.”

Heartland Festival director Graham Howie added: “Ever since the first Heartland Festival back in 2024, our aim has always been to find ways to support the local community as much as possible. We’re delighted to contribute and help make a difference to the Pitlochry High School.” 

Image courtesy of Clare McMicking / CraicN Communications