REGGAE, jazz and Cuban calypso are not musical genres commonly heard in the school halls of Darlington.

But students at four schools in the town have been treated to the eclectic blend of styles at a series of workshops run by a reknowned world music act this week.

The Grand Union Orchestra is in town ahead of its performance at the Civic Theatre tonight. And the students involved in the workshops will open the show with a piece of music composed in the sessions, which took place at Hummersknott School and Language College, Polam Hall, Skerne Park Primary and Cockerton Primary.

John Frankland, head of music at Hummersknott School, said: "It was absolutely fantastic, the kids thoroughly enjoyed it. They produced some great work and the orchestra said they wished they could have stayed for a week.

"We are really looking forward to performing, it's quite a big thing. None of the students will have performed in front of such a big audience.

"The opportunity to work with professional musicians is hugely beneficial for them. To compose a piece of original music was fantastic."

Tickets are still available for the show, which starts at 7.30pm. They cost £10 and £12, with discounts available. They are available from the box office on 01325-486555.