Hunt is on for musically-minded

The search is on for young musical talent from across the West Midlands to strike a chord at a top Birmingham orchestra.

The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra's youth section wants to boost its ranks.

The Youth CBSO is holding a series of auditions to find players of a wide range of instruments including brass, string and woodwind to join in with the group.

It is throwing open its doors with auditions throughout the month for the 2007-8 season.

The rapidly-growing Youth CBSO wants to hear from any young musicians, aged between 14 and 21 from the entire Midlands region, who are of Grade 8 standard or above.

Youngsters will be put through their paces looking for flare and talent with their chosen musical instrument.

The winners will not only grab a place in the orchestra but also have the chance to perform in two concerts in front of hundreds of people.

Rachel Blackman, spokesman for the CBSO said it was a wonderful opportunity for The Midlands' best musicians to land a place in the renowned group.

She said: "The CBSO Youth Orchestra has gained a reputation as one of the most exciting Youth Orchestras in the UK "The CBSO Youth Orchestra is known for its challenging and colourful programmes, and these conductors will be taking the young musicians through two of the great 20th century showpieces for orchestra – Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra and Nielsen's Inextinguishable symphony – as well as Rachmaninov's ever-popular Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini."

Members receive coaching from professional CBSO musicians and have the opportunity to perform with leading professional conductors and also soloists at Symphony Hall.

This year's chosen candidates will have the opportunity to take part in two concerts at the Symphony Hall, during the October and February half terms. They will work with CBSO Music Director, Sakari Oramo, as well as conductor Martyn Brabbins and the CBSO's Assistant Conductor Michael Seal.

There are places available for all the instruments, but leaders would particularly like to hear from bassoon and double bass players.

Auditions will continue until the end of May in front of judges.

Candidates can apply to take part or find out more information via the official website at www.cbsoyouthorchestra.com

There is also more information available by calling Richard Bratby, CBSO Events Officer on 0121 616 6522.

Alternatively, people can contact the group via email on rbratby@cbso.co.uk