From Louise Raymond, Exeter 383578, July 03, 2008

DEVON Youth Jazz Orchestra has been selected to perform at the National Festival of Music for Youth.

The massive event, which is taking place in Birmingham over 6 days starting 7 July, is a showcase of the UK's most talented young musicians, celebrating every style of music from all corners of the country. DYJO has the honour of playing at the festival's finale on Saturday 12 July.

DYJO conductor Brian Moore said: "Knowing how tough the competition is, this is a real accolade. Our young musicians will have the chance to hear and play for some of the best youth bands in the country."

The sought-after invitation comes at the end of a busy year for the orchestra, whose recent commitments have included the Teignmouth Jazz Festival, Dartmouth Music Festival, Devon County Show, Exeter Festival, and a performance in Exmouth Manor Gardens.

Tomorrow (July 4) Brian Moore and fellow conductor Graham Hutton will be taking the young jazz players to London to rehearse with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and perform at the Kensington bandstand, in the heart of the capital.

Executive Member for Children and Young People's Services, Cllr John Smith, said: "So many exciting opportunities for DYJO are a testament to the talent of Devon's young musicians and the dedication and commitment of all involved."

Ken Parr, Head of Devon Music Service, said: "I am delighted that DYJO have been selected to perform at the National Festival of Music for Youth and I am certain that our young players will benefit greatly from taking part. I wish them every success."

DYJO is run by Devon County Council's Music Service, alongside six other youth ensembles spanning a range of musical styles. All seven groups will be recruiting for new members in September. For more information, please see the website www.devon.gov.uk/musicservice or email devonmusicservice@devon.gov.uk.

More info on NFMY is available here: http://www.mfy.org.uk/National-Festival.asp . Tickets are also available for the festival from that website.

Ends