MP backing for young musicians

More than 100 musicians who currently benefit from the North Powys Youth Music Trust have been given a vote of confidence by MP Glyn Davies.

The Trust, which is funded largely by Powys County Council, holds weekly rehearsals at Welshpool High School and also organises a broad range of activities throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, residential courses, competitions and tours.

Mr Davies, who visited with Assembly Member, Russell George, and Powys County Councillor Myfanwy Alexander, said the Trust is vital to “foster, promote and encourage the musical talent of young people within Montgomeryshire”.

“My visit really highlighted to me the importance of Music and the Arts within Montgomeryshire and I was privileged to have had the chance to hear so many supremely talented young musicians,” said Mr Davies. “The Trust plays an important part in allowing young people to express their talent and in encouraging their development.

“It is vital that Music for young people continues to be supported.”

Julie Turner, North Powys Youth Music Trust’s administrator, said: “We were delighted to play host to these very special guests at our rehearsals earlier this month. Powys County Council is our major funder and without them we would not be able to offer wonderful musical opportunities for young people.

“We were so pleased that County Cllr Alexander, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Learning and Leisure, could see for herself the value and effect of their support.”

The Trust administers, promotes and funds joint music-making for groups of young instrumentalists from across Montgomeryshire, playing in North Powys Youth Band, North Powys Youth Orchestra, Training Band, String Team, Brass Blowers and Concert Band.

Weekly rehearsals for the North Powys Music Trust during term time take place on Friday nights from 5.15pm–7.45pm and free transportation is provided from all the High Schools in Montgomeryshire, plus several other pick-up points en route. The Trust welcomes new brass, string, woodwind and percussion players, and anyone interested should contact Julie on julie@turners4.freeserve.co.uk. For further details and the latest news visit the Trust’s website: www.northpowysyouthmusic.co.uk