Young musicians tune up for showcase concert

Over 320 young musicians from across the Highlands are busy rehearsing for their annual showcase concert, taking place on Saturday 20th November, which this year will include the debut performance by the Highland Youth Choir.

Held in the Osprey Arena at MacDonald Aviemore Resort, the showcase will open with the first concert at 2.30pm featuring the Highland Regional Youth Orchestra, the Highland Youth Pipe Band, Còisir G and the Highland Youth Big Band.

The evening concert will start at 7.00pm with the Highland Schools Wind Band, the Highland Youth String Orchestra, Highland Youth Pipe Band, `snas and the Highland Youth Choir performing on stage, providing a wide repertoire of music for the audience to enjoy.

The eight Highland Regional Music Groups are organised and run by The Highland Council as an extension to the work of the Instrumental Tuition Service in Highland. Membership for all groups is by invitation after an Audition Day held in May each year. Some of the musicians are also members of national instrumental ensembles.

The Council's Music Development Officer, Norman Bolton said: "The musicians performing come from primary and secondary schools throughout the Highlands and range in ages from 10 years up to 18. The musical groups give young players the experience of performing live and the chance to develop their skills beyond any opportunity available in individual schools. Everyone taking part, including the tutors, have been working very hard and gearing up for this event which is the highlight of the year. I hope as many people as possible take this opportunity to come and enjoy what will be a very entertaining showcase that will celebrate the talent and dedication of our young musicians and reflect the work of all those who nurture and support them."

All eight groups receive support from the Friends of Highland Youth Music who will be holding their AGM in the Aviemore Inn Strathspey Suite at 4pm to which all parents of the musicians are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served.

The showcase is sponsored by Macdonald Aviemore Resort. Previous concerts have sold out in advance so anyone wishing to come along is advised to book early. Tickets are available for either concert at £8 or £6 for under 18's, with a discounted ticket covering both the afternoon and evening concerts costing £12 and £9. To book please contact 01349 863441.