MUSICIANS in east Durham are celebrating a cash windfall that will help fund the provision of tuition for people in the community.

The Seaham Music Academy has been awarded £10,000 from The Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation.

Academy joint musical director Helen Armstrong said: “Whether we realise it or not, music permeates our lives.

“We want to bring this gift within the reach of all people, particularly the young.”

“At Seaham Music Academy we are determined to provide people with the opportunity to learn how to play music.”

She added: “Previously we have had to charge a fixed rate of £5 per person per week for the hire of an instrument and tuition.

“Even then we realised that this sum could prove prohibitive for some people especially families with a few children.”

“However, this generous award from such a prestigious body as The Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation means that we are now in a position to negotiate with individuals about charges.”

Seaham Music Academy, founded in 1992, teaches anyone how to play string, woodwind, brass or percussion instruments.

Beginners do not need to own an instrument as the academy can usually provide one.

The academy would be happy to accept any unwanted musical instruments, which would be put to good use.

The academy meets from 9am to noon each term-time Saturday morning at Seaview Primary School, Deneside, Seaham.

Anyone who would like to learn how to play music can just turn up.

Otherwise more information can be found at www.seahammusicacademy.org.uk or by contacting 07984 959848.