YOUNG musicians from Huddersfield are proving to be that little bit special.

For High Turns, a group of 12 students with learning difficulties, were today taking part in the National Festival of Music For Youth 2005.

The group - comprising students from Highfields and Turnshaws special schools - travelled to Birmingham to take part in the festival at the Adrian Boult Hall.

They reached today's event after a stunning performance in heats at Colne Valley High School earlier this year.

And if they perform well today, the group could be invited to the Music For Youth Schools Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, London on November 7 and 8.

Musical director Mark Sharpley, of Turnshaws, is delighted with the group.

"We are there to prove that everyone can make music and have fun doing so. The group has been together for about six months and every one of the students is now accomplished on at least three instruments.

"They have developed and practised music to represent a musical journey around the world.

"They started with a rap song and moved on via Australia, Italy, North America and China.

"Some included vocal pieces, others are instrumental.

"We have performed at New Hall Prison, Ilkley Music Festival and the West Yorkshire Playhouse, as well as Colne Valley, but today is the biggest challenge to date.

"I don't know who else will be taking part but we are determined to enjoy the day."

Cash for the project has come from staff and parents of the two schools and other events.

Cath Haigh, landlady at The Royal, Kirkburton, raised £800 towards the venture.

Today the group will be among 300 groups at Birmingham for a week-long series of concerts and recitals.