One of the orchestra's founders, Jeanette Barclay said: "I was just delighted with the evening. The turnout was great and we appreciated having a good audience to play to.

"I think it was the best we ever played - the adrenalin was running high. The experience has bonded us as an orchestra. We were all very nervous, but now we can't wait for the next performance."

The programme, varied and technically challenging, included a selection of classical, contemporary and Scottish music, highlighting not only the talents of the players, but of the conductor who stylishly led his orchestra with a sophistication well beyond his years.

Paul Tierney (24) stepped off his podium, giving centre stage to Nicola Auchnie and Ronnie Gibson who played the duelling violins in his own contemporary composition, 'Feud' which held the audience and members of the orchestra spellbound.

Another unforgettable moment came when four of the youngest members, Clair Duggan, Jo Whiteman, Robbie Huxtable and Emma Gibb, all in full time education, took the spotlight to play a lively Scottish interlude.

Jeanette commented: "That they can switch between playing orchestral to ceilidh - the techniques are so different - they are so gifted, they are just oozing talent."

"It is good to have a blend of young and old in the orchestra. The older ones are the core but the younger ones will always be coming and going.

Inverurie Orchestra is always looking for new players. Continuing, Jeanette said: "We welcome new players of all abilities - we'll all be learning new works when we start up again in the autumn term.
"It was a good performance - a demanding concert. We all had to work hard to achieve that standard."

Anyone interested in joining the orchestra should visit Morgan's Music, Rose Lane, or phone Jeanette on (01467) 624629. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings during term time, between 7.30 and 9.30pm.