Fresh from the sell-out concert at Theatr Hafren in July, the Youth Music Trust has now produced 3,000 copies of a new brochure explaining how young people can join their music-making.

The brochure is full of information and describes how musicians aged eight to 18 can join.

The organisation has groups for all different instruments and standards starting with the Brass Blowers, String Team and Concert Band, moving right up to the Training Band, Youth Band and Youth Orchestra.

The groups play all types of music, ranging from classical, film and show music, to traditional and original folk music.

As the conductor of the Youth Orchestra Aidan Hassan told the County Times: "Basically, if it's good, we will play it!"

The group holds 30 rehearsals a year at Welshpool High School, which take place on Friday evenings from 5.15pm to 7.45pm for which transport from across the county is provided free.

The groups put on concerts throughout the year and also many young musicians take part in workshops, residential courses and overseas trips.

The cost is just £20 per term.

The costs have been kept down thanks to the financial support of the high schools, friends organisations and donors such as the Co-operative Group who have generously supported the printing of this new brochure.

Chairman of North Powys Youth Music Trust, Simon Baynes, told the County Times that the group is always looking to attract more members: "North Powys Music is thriving with more than 120 young people involved but we are very keen to attract new players. We need to spread the word about the great music-making opportunities we have on offer."

Mr Baynes said he hopes the brochure will help in spreading the message about the group's various opportunities,
He said: "The brochure will be very helpful for telling schools about our activities. Music teachers across the county can show their pupils the exciting musical groups they can join.

"The Gala Concert in Theatr Hafren in July was attended by over 500 people who gave the young musicians a rapturous reception. Many people in the audience said afterwards that they had no idea that our young musicians are so good."

Brian Ishamel, chairman of the Co-Operative's Mid Wales and Shropshire committee, which provided the grant for the new brochure, said: "The community fund can make a real and lasting contribution to local communities and we are delighted to have made this award to North Powys Youth Music Trust for its brochure."

For more information on the group, visit the website at www.northpowysyouthmusic.co.uk, contact Gwen Stimpson on 01686 430468 or email gwen.stimpson@btinternet.com