TOPSHAM Rock School has released its first CD.

Michael Thomas, founder of the musical organisation for youngsters aged between 10 and 16, was delighted with the outcome of the album – called The 2010 Sessions.

The CD, which was recorded and produced at Sound Gallery Studios in Exeter, features 10 original compositions from the school’s six bands.

A thrilled Mr Thomas, of Station Road, said: “I’m just absolutely blown away with how good it is especially the sound quality. It’s a very professional recording.

“The kids loved the experience of being able to go into a recording studio.”

The CD will be on sale at their next gig on Saturday, December 4 at Matthews Hall and can also be purchased at Joel Segal Book shop in Fore Street.

Topsham Rock School spent a total of three days in the recording studio.

It submitted an application to Exeter Arts Council for help with the costs of producing the CD. The school also found some additional money to go towards mixing time.

Mr Thomas, 42, said: “We have had 100 printed and we’ve sold quite a lot already to the kids’ parents. And hopefully we’ll make enough money to fund ‘The 2011 Sessions’ next summer!”

Testament to the success and popularity of the rock school in Topsham, the long-term aspiration of its founder is to expand and hopefully start a similar organisation in Exmouth.

“Everyone involved with the school is so enthusiastic and it clearly works really well,” explained Mr Thomas.

“Kids turn up every week – with very few exceptions – and they love it.”

Speaking about demand for places in the school which has a limit, he added: “In terms of some of the bands that have been here from the start, some of the members are now aged 16.

“They were always told that once they hit 16, you may have to make way for new bands.

“That has happened to our first band. But what is really great and inidicative of how well things work, all of those kids still come and work as junior tutors.”

Adding to what has been a busy period, Topsham Rock School has been shortlisted to receive money from Natwest’s Community Fund.

The bank, in keeping with its customer charter, set up the fund to support local charities and projects.

Last July it gave people the chance to nominate ones that make a big difference in their local communities and the winners were voted for on the Natwest website.

The rock school is only one of three organisations in the East Devon area set to receive either �1,000 or �3,000. The results will be announced in December.

If anyone is interested in joining the school, there are one or two places available to join the bands. The school is also appealing for new tutors who could spare one hour per week.

For more information on the above, send an email to Michael Thomas at: Michael@topshamrockschool.org or visit the following website address: www.topshamrockschool.co.uk