MUSIC students at a primary school teamed up with the Salvation Army to put on a special annual show.

A band of 45 young musicians from Consett Junior School have been rehearsing with members of Consett Salvation Army Band and the White River Brass Ensemble ahead of a concert at the Empire Theatre tonight (Fri, June 19).

The event was promoted by Leisureworks as part of a community group project which supports the arts in County Durham schools.

It marked the 16th year pupils at Consett Junior School have come together with more experienced musicians to learn about the culture of music and how to perform in front of a large audience.

Special workshops are held at the school throughout the day, and traditionally end with a performance from the school band on the evening.

Band master David Jackson said: “The event is a very exciting one because the children look forward to it year on year.

“The children have before them some of the finest musicians in the world and it inspires them and makes them understand what performance is about.

“It’s an experience which is quite incredible for them.”

The musical youngsters are also due to perform at Consett and Blackhill Park with Bandacadabra from Italy, Les Trans Savates from France, and the New York Brass Band on July 13, and again with the Salvation Army in August.