CHAMBER music enthusiasts in Darlington have welcomed its return to the area, as part of a national project.

The Darlington and Dales Youth Orchestra has supported a scheme designed to raise awareness of the chamber music repertoire.

The campaign was run by the National Association of Youth Orchestras (NAYO), which represents more than 1,800 groups across the country.

The Darlington group promoted the initiative to its younger members in particular, and received a positive response.

Orchestra chairman Clive Davies said: "There is a tremendous reservoir of music by some of the most famous composers in history in the chamber music repertoire, but sadly it is not that well known.

"We were enthusiastic to take part in the NAYO chamber music initiative so that we could draw some of this wonderful music to the attention of our young members."

Chamber music was originally written for different occasions, including the courts of Europe, but it was also an important focus for family life in the years before television and radio.

Quartets were drawn from the orchestra's young members to play at a fundraising event.

The orchestra is still looking for young musicians and anyone interested can call or text 07967 854906.