Wolverhampton Summer Sounds saw around 500 children and young people take to the stage in the Civic and Wulfrun Halls between Monday 13 and Thursday 16 July, performing to audiences of family members, friends and invited guests.

The concerts featured a wide range of ensembles from Wolverhampton Music Service, including the Youth Choir, Concert String Orchestra, Keyboard Ensemble, Fusion Fives, Bhangra Fusion Percussion, Primary and Secondary Rock 'n' Pop groups, Guitar Group, Concert Wind Band, New Wind, Early Strings, New Strings, Jazz Big Band, Youth Wind Orchestra and Youth Orchestra.

Audience members were quick to praise the performances.

One parent, following the Rock 'n' Pop and Bhangra Fusion Percussion concerts, said: "Absolutely brilliant evening. What talented young people." Another added: "Fantastic night! What great talent these kids have."

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: "Summer Sounds was a wonderful celebration of the talent, dedication and creativity of Wolverhampton's young people.

“I was privileged to be invited to one of the performances myself and it was fantastic to see so many performers taking to the stage, and so many families and supporters coming along to cheer them on."

The Summer Sounds concert series was once again made possible thanks to a generous £10,000 donation from the Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service. The group also raised additional funds through raffles and collections throughout the week.

Head of the Music Service Ciaran O'Donnell said: "These concerts give young musicians the opportunity to perform in a professional venue in front of a large audience, which is an invaluable experience. The standard of performance across all four nights was outstanding and we are incredibly proud of every young person who took part.

"We are also extremely grateful to the Friends of Wolverhampton Music Service for their continued support, which helps us provide these opportunities for children and young people across the city."

Wolverhampton Music Service provides high-quality tuition and musical opportunities for children and young people from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra. The service will be recruiting new members in September. For more information, visit Wolverhampton Music Service.