THE Okehampton Music Centre has celebrated the end of its second year with a performance that wowed audiences at Okehampton College last Thursday.

During their performances, the children who take lessons at the centre had the opportunity to showcase their musical talents in front of family, friends, teachers and a whole host of guests.

Karen Percival, from Okehampton United Charities, said: ‘I was very impressed with the music centre’s concert. The children were enthusiastic and played their various instruments with precision and a skill I wasn’t expecting.’

The concert culminated in a performance of Greig’s In the Hall of the Mountain King, which is one of the BBC’s ten pieces of music specially arranged for a mixed ability orchestra.

Parents noted the significant progress made by children this year with most pupils continuing to learn at the music centre.

Funded by Okehampton United Charities and Devon Music Education Hub, Okehampton Music Centre offers scholarships to children and young people to provide affordable music lessons and workshops on Thursdays after school at Okehampton College, for children in Year 3 to Year 9.

There is also a choir which can be taken in combination with lessons or on its own.

New for 2017, lessons on the recorder will be offered as a first step to developing the skills required to learn the oboe, bassoon or clarinet when pupils are older. These classes will also be available to Year 2 pupils, giving them the opportunity to join in the music centre.

To apply for a place with Okehampton Music Centre starting in January 2017 please contact Community Links on 07808 523111 or email [email protected]

Pictures by Ian?Snell