A project will be launched to improve young brass players' musical mastery.

The Durham Brass Initiative will run workshops in Derwentside and Easington for musicians in school and former colliery bands.

The project, Free Range Music, will give young players the chance to work with professional musicians and introduce them to different styles of music.

The brass initiative, which organises the annual Durham Brass Festival, has won funding from the Youth Music Foundation.

Project co-ordinator Rob Guest said it would build on the county's brass band tradition and produce a new generation of musicians.

He said: "The idea is to create new experiences and get people interested in different things.

"We will start with a few workshops in Derwentside and Easington and expand it to summer schools."

"The project is a response to the enthusiasm we have found in young people in the past. They are very keen.''

Some participants could play in next year's brass festival.

Mr Guest said the project, due to start in the spring, also stood a chance of being extended to other parts of the county.

Free Range Music is due to run until the middle of next year but Mr Guest said he hoped it would continue beyond then.

For details call Mr Guest on 0191-301 8245.

Published: 21/01/2005