A MUSIC initiative was launched at a school in Teesdale yesterday.

Free Range Music is a Durham-based organisation which provides young people with opportunities to access and learn music.

To mark the start of its latest project, The Music Hatchery, young musicians from Teesdale Comprehensive were joined by a giant trombone-playing chicken.

Project co-ordinator, Rob Guest, said: "Events like The Music Hatchery are an excellent opportunity for young people to share and make music with their peers from across the region."

The series of workshops and seminars are planned for Durham.

Next Thursday, at Durham School, American jazz virtuoso Abram Wilson will lead a workshop looking at his jazz styles.

On Friday, February 24, at Durham School, Dutch trio, De Jongens Driest, deliver a workshop.

For a full programme and more information visit www.free rangemusic.org or call 0191-3018245.