YOUNG music maestros from Inverclyde hit the high notes as they played with one of Scotland’s leading national youth ensembles.

Twelve members from Riverside Youth Band joined forces with performers from all over the country as part of the 180-strong National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland (NYBBS).

The group spent a week at Strathallan School in Perthshire working with renowned conductors and tutors, enjoying rehearsals and also one-to-one tuition.

Holly Callaghan, 14, was attending her first NYBBS course and believes the course has improved her cornet playing significantly.

The St Stephen’s High School pupil said: “I was a bit anxious to begin with but it helped my confidence so much.

"I made lots of new friends and it has really helped my cornet playing.

"We worked on lots of technical pieces I didn’t think I would have been able to play.”

Notre Dame's Fraser MacLachlan, 15, who was named principal flugelhorn with NYBBS Reserves in his first full summer course, said the weekend improved his playing.

He added: "I learned lots of new techniques and it helped increase my confidence.

"I've made lots of new friends, who I look forward to keeping in touch with.”

The course also included solo competitions and talent shows and members were able to take part in various sporting activities in their down time.

It ended in a series of concerts which allowed the members to show off the results of all their hard work throughout the week.

Bass trombone player Mark Gammon, 15, was awarded promotion from NYBBS Reserves to the senior band at the end of the course and is already looking forward to returning next year.

The Port High pupil said: “I had a fantastic week at NYBBS.

"It was great to meet with other like-minded people from all over the country and work on some really challenging music.

“My playing developed lots and I’m excited about performing in the seniors next year.”

Riverside Youth Band are keen to welcome new members.

No audition is required and instruments can be provided.

For more information email Laura Good at secretary@riversideyouthband.co.uk or call 07455323874.