A STAR in the making has brought a ray of sunshine into St Helens’ homes of with a moving rendition of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’.

Emily Laper-Dobie, 16, featured in the first episode of St Helens Music Service’s Online Concert Series.

The weekly series will feature live performances from students and tutors performing in their own homes.

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To kick off the series, Emily, from Rainhill, recorded a cover of Judy Garland’s classic ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’, from the Wizard of Oz.

“In the past week or so, I have been on social media a lot and I have witnessed hundreds, maybe thousands of kids/adults painting rainbows on their window to keep positivity going, throughout this tragic time,” Emily said.

“This moved me so very much so I decided to join in. My cover of this beautiful song is my way of painting a rainbow.

“I thought that this song would be perfect for the current situation, as it is so uplifting and such a well-known song that everyone enjoys.”

Emily, who recently learnt she had been accepted into the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, said the response to her video has been “unbelievable”.

The Rainhill High School student plans to release more cover songs through her social media channels and is also planning to record more songs for St Helens Music Service’s Online Concert Series.

“I have had so many views, likes, comments and personal messages about my cover,” she said.

“It has been absolutely amazing to have had these responses. I have not had a single negative response from anyone, which is great.

“I can’t wait to share more covers on my social media accounts and make more people happier in their homes at this terrible time.

“I think it is crucial that we all stay positive together, and I believe that music is the best way to stay happy and spread our emotions, which is why I decided to sing a song everyone knows and loves.”

Emily said she has used the lockdown to focus on her own music, which has helped her deal with her own anxieties.

The 16-year-old said there will be many others who will be struggling with their own mental health and hopes the power of social media can be harnessed to help them realise they are not alone.

“During lockdown, I have had more time to work on my own music and this distracts me from all of the anxiety and worry I sometimes feel,” she said.

“It is safer to stay inside than to be outside, this can save so many lives if people follow the rules.

“I understand very clearly that a lot of people will struggle more than others at this tough time.

“Being stuck inside for a long period of time, not keeping busy, and daily routines changing can make them feel trapped, alone and maybe scared.

“I believe that if we spread positivity on social media, like my song, people who may be struggling or feeling alone, will hopefully feel like they are part of a family and realise that it won’t last forever.

“Things will get better quicker if we stick to the rules given.”

The next entry in St Helens Music Service’s Online Concert Series is due to drop on Friday evening and will be a cover of a Beatles song performed by another student.

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Nicola Skrzypczak, assistant head of service, said it has lined up performances from its string, percussion, and brass tutors for future instalments.

To watch more videos in the series, like St Helens Music Service on Facebook or follow on Twitter.

Emily can also be found on Facebook (Emily Dobie) and Instagram (ems_music_officialx).