A CHARITY dedicated to keeping music alive in schools is holding a festival in Trowbridge for the first time.

Music for Youth is holding one of its 56 regional music festivals at the John of Gaunt School on March 27 next year. The closing date for entries is December 8.

A spokesman said: "This event has been made possible with funding from Youth Music. Musical groups from orchestras to duos, from jazz, folk and rock bands to samba bands and steel pans, as well as choirs, chamber groups, brass and wind bands are invited to enter these festivals and there is also a category for classroom music and composition. There are no entry qualifications or fees."

Visit the Music for Youth website at www.mfy.org.uk or phone (020) 88709624 for an entry form.