Talent showcase

Ben Conway (16) impresses the panel of (from the left) Martyn Evans, Oldham’s deputy director of music, Charlotte Penton Smith, director of Future Talent, Lyn Fletcher, leader of the Halle Orchestra, Steve Pickety, the Halle’s education director, and Kathryn Baker, principal flautist with the Halle.

GIFTED young musicians showcased their skills in a bid to win a bursary to boost their future prospects.

Oldham Music Centre hosted a contest to select the borough’s most promising seven to 18-year-olds in partnership with the Future Talent charity and the Halle Orchestra.

The Future Champions Initiative offers bursaries of up to £3,000 for youngsters to buy instruments, attend courses or pay for specialist tuition.