MORE than 50 youngsters performed in a showcase concert in Bishop Auckland yesterday as a culmination of a youth music project.

Musicians from across the area played in front of family, friends and carers at Bishop Auckland Town Hall as part of the Resounding Technology programme.

The scheme offered free training in songwriting, guitars, drums, sound recording, drums and mixing for youngsters aged between 11 and 18, led by musicians in professional sound studios at Bishop Auckland College.

It was a varied bill, with rock bands, soloists and world music all featuring, and the aim was to celebrate the achievements of the gifted and dedicated teenagers.

Stephen Wiper, Wear Valley District Council's cultural services manager, said: "There have been more than 360 children involved over 180 days of workshops for musicians, all free of charge.

"They've been playing different kinds of music and a musician from Brazil has come over to help teach the youngsters."

As well as Brazilian Alexsandro Gonzaga Rodrigues, musicians Paul Thompson and Dave Hopkins, from Bishop Auckland College and Ben Linacre, from the Sage in Gateshead, were involved in the project, which was supported by Wear Valley District Council and also received a Lottery grant.

Mr Hopkins said: "It has given them a lot of confidence.

"The main aim of this is to give people the opportunity to gain confidence and believe in themselves, which they may not usually have done."