TALENTED young musicians have hit the right note with judges to clinch three places in the finals of a music festival.

The County Youth Choir, County Big Band and County Wind Ensemble all won through to the last stage of the National Festival of Music for Youth, which will be held at Birmingham's Symphony Hall, from Monday to Saturday, July 10 to 15.

Each ensemble - part of Durham County Council's Durham Music Service -- is made up of 15 to 18-year-old secondary pupils.

They reached the national finals, where they will compete against young musicians from across the United Kingdom, by winning the regional finals held at Shotton Hall School, in Peterlee.

Unfortunately, the wind ensemble is unable to take its place at the finals as pupils have other commitments.

Carolyn Norris, deputy head of the Durham Music Service, said: "Reaching the National Festival of Music for Youth finals recognises the dedication of our young musicians and ensemble directors and the high standards they have achieved.

"To have three representatives win through to the finals also highlights the tremendous wealth of musical talent available in County Durham and Darlington.

"We would like to congratulate everyone concerned on their success and wish them good luck in Birmingham."