Big Noise Raploch – set up by the charity Sistema Scotland to change the lives of children in some of Scotland’s most disadvantaged communities – will be performing at the spectacular History Live Opening Concert on Friday 29 September, alongside The Royal Burgh of Stirling Pipe Band and the phenomenally successful Glasgow Philharmonia, with music by John Maxwell Geddes.

Nicola Killean, Chief Executive of Big Noise of Sistema Scotland, said: “The children at Big Noise Raploch are so excited to be a part of the History Live Opening Concert which is why they’ve been practicing so hard in the lead up to the heritage festival.

“Performances such as History Live are a key part of the Big Noise programme. They give the children confidence, aspiration and the opportunity to perform to a live audience alongside experienced musicians.

“Being part of the opening concert is a great opportunity for the children. History Live celebrates all that is extraordinary within Scotland’s rich heritage, and we think the talent and dedication of our youngsters reflects just that. It’s great to see their confidence grow!”

The Opening Concert is just one of the events set to take the weekend by storm in an action-packed programme coordinated by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and its partners across Scotland’s heritage and tourism sectors.

Fun for all the family? Draw your own conclusion at the CSI Stirling sessions throughout the weekend which will introduce visitors to forensic anthropology with a look at the skills, techniques and methods used. Or why not sign up for a free History Essay Writing workshop on Sunday for a chance to brush up on your writing skills and get top tips from the Scottish History Network, just in time to enter the prestigious National History Essay Writing Competition.

Gillian MacDonald, Head of Sales & Marketing at Historic Environment Scotland, said: “We’ve cooked up a real feast of exhibitions, performances, walking tours and fun activities for people of all ages to enjoy so we’re inviting everyone to shine a light on Stirling’s remarkable history next weekend.

“Music, dance and drama will fill the city as Scotland’s history comes alive with events such as the Renaissance Revelry at Stirling Castle which will give visitors a sneak peek at how the royals lived.

“Some of our events, such as the Gaelic Singing Workshop and Cambuskenneth Tours, are already sold out so we’d urge everyone to reserve their tickets as soon as possible!”

Don’t miss out on the chock-full series of free and ticketed family-friendly activities taking place in venues across Stirling from Friday 29 September to Sunday 1 October, as part of Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.HistoryLive.scot and follow @WeLoveHistory or @HistEnvScot ‏on Twitter for updates.