Reseller ANS is providing the video conferencing component for what will be the UK’s first simultaneous video-linked musical workshop.

The project is designed to allow schools in remote parts of North Yorkshire to take part in exclusive sessions with orchestral academy Southbank Sinfonia via a high-definition video link.

It was organised by North Yorkshire broadband initiative, NYnet, to demonstrate the benefit of next-generation video conferencing in schools. ANS is providing the video conferencing solution itself, which comprises two LifeSize high-definition video conferencing units.

In total, 150 children from seven schools will take part in the initiative, culminating in a final performance on 21 November at the National Railway Museum.

ANS managing director Paul Sweeney argued that video conferencing could boost connectivity between remote rural and urban schools.

“Being able to better connect rural schools, not only to the resource in their region but also to such a national centre of excellence is a major coup and a prime example of the role that modern technology should be playing in public sector facilities,” he said.

David Cullen, chief executive of NYnet, said: “The unique high-speed NYnet network and ANS Group’s video conferencing solution will open the ‘Next Generation Music’ initiative up to the community and highlight the unique opportunities that can be offered to schools.”