A NEW fundraising orchestra that will help talented young musicians pay for course fees debuts this weekend.

The Musical Futures Orchestra is the brainchild of local brass teacher, Kristyann Symonds, and features many local instrumental teachers, students and professional musicians.

On Sunday (October 20) they are holding a concert at St Mary's Church in Monmouth at 7pm. It will be directed by the eminent conductor, orchestrator and arranger Mr Martyn Ford, and will include Beethoven's ever-popular Symphony No 5 and a concerto for trombone by Launy Grondahl performed by 16-year-old trombone soloist, Rhiannon Symonds.

The Musical Futures Orchestra Young Musician Fund provides much needed financial support for young musicians from the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley region who have been successful in auditioning for national music organisations such as the National Youth Orchestras of Great Britain and Wales, National Youth Choir and National Youth Music Theatre, and need assistance in meeting the course fees.

Organiser Kristyann said: "The fund got off to a flying start last weekend thanks to a fantastic trombone, organ and voice recital given by five gifted young performers including, Pillowell lad William Sharma and Rhiannon, and we have raised so far about £250.

"We are now excitedly preparing for the orchestra's debut on Sunday and hope to try and at least match the figure we raised with the recital. If we can do so we will have raised enough money to send two students on a National Youth Arts Wales course, such as the National Youth Orchestra of Wales, or provide half the fees for one student for a National Youth Orchestra or Brass Band of Great Britain course which would be fantastic.

"These courses are vital for the development of aspiring young professional musicians so we really want to do our bit to help out with fees if we can."

To reserve tickets or for further information call Kristyann on 01594 562778.