STUDENTS at a music school are using new recording equipment to create an album of their own songs.

Those studying at the Darwen School of Music in Blackburn Road are being encouraged to use the equipment for their compositions for a collection of 30 to 40 tracks.

Paul Davies, a soul singer and teacher who among others coached Reece Bibby from X Factor and is noted for his covers of Marvin Gaye’s songs, runs the school.

He said: “We are recording a double album of original songs which we intend to sell on iTunes.

“We have recently upgraded the recording facilities at the music school and as a new project, have been encouraging the students to have a go and writing and recording their own songs in their vocal and guitar lessons.

“Each teaching studio is equipped with recording facilities which means we can more than one recording session taking place at the same time.

“Its looking likely that the album will be a double album with around 30 to 40 original songs.

“Students record cover version all the time in their lessons but the rule of the album is that the songs have to be original to give them the writing experience.

“Around half of the album is already complete and we are hoping to have it all finished for Christmas or soon into 2017.

“The teachers are experienced songwriters themselves with several compositions past featured in the iTunes charts.”

Nicola Holden’s daughter Faith is a singer who receives tuition at the school.

She said: “Faith is determined to work in musical theatre and is devoted to her music and singing.

“Learning about the recording process is excellent experience and is giving her confidence to work on her own compositions.”

Jacob Reddy, 11, is another student who who has written his own song for the project.

His dad, Anthony, said: “Jacob’s been playing the guitar since he was seven after he saw a rock band play at a wedding.

“He’s very excited about recording his stuff and has written and sung his own song ‘Lie Tonight’.

“It’s terrific that he’s getting access to this recording technology and being part of the album that’s being recorded.”