YOUNG members of the Forest of Dean Area Wind Band (FODAWB) have passed their musical grades with flying colours.

Isobel Randall-Evans, aged 13, has been playing First Clarinet at the band for 18 months and passed Clarinet Grade 3 with merit. A talented musician Izzy also took up the saxophone 12 months ago and achieved Grade 3 with this instrument.

Lucy Currie, aged 11, started playing the clarinet just over two years ago and passed Grade 2 with merit. She began her first lessons at the FODAWB music centre as part of the Gloucestershire Music’s First Access programme, Lucy is a shining example of how the programme works by offering beginner lessons as well as the opportunity to play with the Band just months after starting.

Nine-year-old Charley Cooke had a big challenge from the moment he picked up the drumsticks. Just months after Charley started playing the drums, the band’s experienced senior percussionist left the band to start university, Charley stepped in and took over the role. Charley has been awarded his Grade 1 with merit.

Sam Davis, director of the FODAWB, said: "I couldn’t be prouder of our young musicians, they have worked very hard to achieve these grades and I see the results of that hard work each week at rehearsals."

New recruits can contact Sam on 07971 555576 for more information.