TALENTED youngsters from across Suffolk have been learning what it's like to be a professional musician at one of the world's greatest concert venues.Hundreds of pupils from the Ipswich area have joined others from across the county for the annual Celebration of Schools' Music at Snape Maltings.

TALENTED youngsters from across Suffolk have been learning what it's like to be a professional musician at one of the world's greatest concert venues.

Hundreds of pupils from the Ipswich area have joined others from across the county for the annual Celebration of Schools' Music at Snape Maltings.

The week of performances features everything from jazz and rock bands, choirs and orchestras to ensembles and cross-arts pieces, and it demonstrates the wide range of work currently being produced within schools in Suffolk.

Jonathan Reekie, chief executive of Aldeburgh Music, said: “The buzz at Snape Maltings concert hall during the week of Celebration is infectious.

“It is a valuable performing opportunity for young people and a platform for teachers' talent. The energy in the concert hall is overwhelming.”

Among those taking part have been Belstead School, Copleston High School, Great Finborough primary school, Martlesham Beacon Hill primary school and St Pancras Catholic primary school.

Christian Martin, 11, a pupil at Beacon Hill primary school, was relishing the thought of playing the grand piano. A pianist since the age of six, Christian said: “I have learnt my piece off by heart - but I could still make a mistake.”

Fellow pupil Laurence Portaluri, 11, had enjoyed a “good day out” at Snape and he said: “I enjoy doing the dancing and I am looking forward to seeing people clapping.”

Izzy Pennington, 10, had her parents, Catherine and Andrew Pennington, and brother Callum in the audience last night. Before going on stage she said: “I am excited and nervous.”

The event is sponsored by Trinity Guildhall and it is the result of a long-standing partnership between Aldeburgh Music and the county council.

Highlights include the performance by Parkside Unit in Ipswich, which stems from an Aldeburgh Music artist development project. Pupils and staff have worked on a variety of artistic disciplines to create a new piece.