Council celebrates musical talent

Sixty of the county’s best young musicians will perform in a musical showcase to be held at the Courtyard Theatre, Hereford on Friday 23rd February.

Herefordshire Council has organised the event which will involve performances from some of the county’s outstanding 15-18 year old musicians.  Around 60 performers were selected from more than 300 young musicians during two days of auditions at the Shirehall last month.

The audience will experience a concert rich in variety of forms and styles, which will be introduced by BBC Radio 3 and 4 presenter Tommy Pearson.  The Herefordshire Youth Big Band will perform in the foyer from 6.45pm-7.30pm and during the interval and the Herefordshire Youth Orchestra will perform in the finale.

Members of an audition panel will offer comments on all performances at the end, although the concert is non competitive.

Paul Aldred, Head of the Music Service, said:  “We’re hoping to fill the Courtyard Theatre in order to make it another memorable occasion for both performers and audience. 

“We have some incredibly talented young musicians in Hereford, some of whom I believe could go on to become professional musicians.  Getting them altogether is a rare opportunity.”

Councillor Don Rule, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “How lovely to be able to celebrate the achievements of some of our young people. 

“We need to give our children and young people rich and varied experiences, and I know that the music service works with hundreds of the county’s children, helping them enjoy a wide range of musical instruments.

“I attend this event every year and am always amazed at the talent we have in the county.  I’m always particularly impressed by the self-confidence the performers have in front of such a large audience.

I am looking forward to this year’s concert immensely.”