HUNDREDS of young musicians showed off their talents at Huddersfield Town Hall last night.

Five hundred youngsters took part in the 3rd annual Kirklees Music School Showcase Concert.

The 1,200-seat concert hall was sold out for the event which featured woodwind, string and brass groups.

Among the performers was Ed Davis, from Clayton West, who was playing bass guitar with Shelley Junior Band on his 12th birthday yesterday. His brother Will, 13, plays guitar in the band.

The band played Smoke on the Water, Name That Tune and YMCA.

Kirklees Youth Symphony Orchestra also performed last night, playing a selection of music from Miss Saigon.

The event showcased the talents of young people who attend the Kirklees Music Schools in Huddersfield, Shelley, Holmfirth and Linthwaite.

Principal Thom Meredith said: “We decided to run these events to raise awareness of our music schools. Kirklees is such an amazing area for music but we don’t shout about it enough.”

Mr Meredith added that learning music was good for young people.

He said: “There’s been all sorts of research showing the benefits of music, including building social skills, teamwork and concentration. Schools feel that we make a difference.”

Kirklees Music School held another showcase on Tuesday night at Dewsbury Town Hall for its schools in Mirfield, Batley and Cleckheaton.

Mr Meredith said: “It was the first time we held a showcase in Dewsbury and it was a very successful night.”

For more information on Kirklees Music School call 01484 426426.