Young musicians' showcase concert

Outstanding young musicians from across the county have been selected to take part in this year's Young Musicians' Showcase at The Courtyard in Hereford on Friday 22nd February.

In the afternoon, more than 100 young musicians will perform to a jam-packed auditorium of 300 primary school children. In the evening, BBC Radio 3 and Radio 4 presenter, Tommy Pearson will introduce the showcase, which is performed by some of the county's most talented young musicians, to the public.

This year the music service received more than 70 entries for the event and the standards were the highest yet. It took two full days of auditions to decide who would be selected for the big concert. French musical specialist Roger Nichols from Kington and Brian Hawkins, retired head of strings at the Royal College of Music in London, judged the auditions.

The concert itself is non-competitive, though a member of the audition panel will offer comments at the end. Fifteen-year-old Elizabeth Allen from John Masefield High School will be amongst the performers. Elizabeth plays for the Herefordshire Youth Orchestra and has just got into the National Youth Orchestra with her clarinet playing. Also performing is 13-year-old harpist Glenda Allaway from Lady Hawkins High School in Kington.

The showcase exhibits music in a rich variety of forms and styles, including the Bishops Blues Band and Cathedral School choir - so there will be something interesting for all musical tastes.

Councillor Jenny Hyde, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "We have some incredible talent in Herefordshire and the council's music service does a superb job offering support to schools and helping our young people reach their full potential.

"Once again, this year promises to be an excellent event."

Full programme information is available on 01432 260840 Tickets for the evening concert can be purchased from the Courtyard online or on 0870 1122330 at £7 (concessions available).