A BOARD game designed by two Matlock music teachers has been given the seal of approval by one of the world's leading conductors.

Sir Colin Davis was told about Musical Trixstar by his daughters, Sheida and Yalda Davis, both accomplished professional cellists.

Sir Colin, principal conductor with the London Symphony Orchestra for more than 10 years, was so taken with the game he has now agreed to be its patron.

And the designers, Mark and Jo Percival, are delighted the game is hitting the high notes with everyone.

Mr Percival said: "It has been adopted by more than 120 schools from primary to choir schools and parents are also encouraged to become actively involved.

"Jo and I were keen to find easier methods to engage children and get them to understand and enjoy music theory in a hands-on but non-intimidating way.

"The essence of the game is fun learning."

Sir Colin said: "Learning music theory can be daunting for beginners. This game makes that start both fun and engaging."

Mr Percival is a former Coldstream Guards Military bandsman and his wife is a professional violinist and provides string ensembles for social events.

They are both music teachers in Derbyshire, working at a variety of county schools.

They came up with the idea because they believed children enjoyed playing board games and felt it would make music more approachable.

Based around a board game principle and involving up to six players or teams, participants have to answer questions, mime, act, sing and beat time.

Musical notes are moved around the treble and bass clef board.

Sir Colin's daughters were introduced to it through another conductor, Benjamin Ellin, who is a friend of one of the game's creators.

The patronage means the couple have endorsement for the board game from a well-known name.

One of the schools which has the game is St Giles' Church of England Primary, in Matlock.

The school has a quality mark for the high standards of its music teaching.

Head teacher Julie Stanton said: "This game is inventive, fun and a unique resource for teaching core music. Every school which values music-making should have one."

Parent Birgit Elkington said: "We are a family of six and it's great that all ages can play together and gain general music knowledge, no matter what level of understanding each of us has.

"The game is fun and challenging and our children love the instrumental counters and find the game board attractive and intriguing."

Pupil Megan Cook, 10, said: "There were lots of questions about music and you can see different instruments. You can play in teams or as individuals."

Fellow pupil Scarlett Richards, also 10, said: "It was fun and you don't get bored because there's always something different to do. If you haven't done music before, you won't be put off."

The game costs £35.99, including postage and packaging, and can be ordered from www. musical trixstar. com.