A HOST of talented choirs, bands, ensembles and soloists took to the stage in the first night of Bolton Music Centre Presents 2018.

The performances opened a week of four evening concerts of musical fun from the town's young musicians.

First to tread the boards were Bolton Youth Percussion, who gave renditions of Djole and C Major Salsa.

Then Bolton Junior Concert Band dazzled audiences with performances of Movie Buster, Mickey Mouse March, and Jurassic Park, before solo trombonist Joshua Brierley, accompanied by Jacqueline Tinniswood on piano delivered the beautiful Cavantine op.144.

Bolton Youth Flute Choir then soared with Norwegian Dance No. 2, I'd Do Anything, Close Every Door To Me, and Narcissus — followed by the delightful St Bartholomew's Primary School Recorders.

Next was Bolton Training Strings who performed an eclectic trio of Loch Lomond, Space Quest and The Flintstones.

The second solo performance of the night followed from William Sloane on tuba, who wowed with the Tuba Concerto, 3rd Movement, accompanied by Jacqueline Tinniswood on piano.

Musical magic then came from Bolton Youth Clarinet Choir with Hedwig's Theme from Harry Potter, American Patrol and The Bare Necessities.

And Bolton Youth Concert Band closed the night with an enchanting quartet of Highlights from Les Misérables, The Liberty Bell, James Horner: Hollywood Blockbusters and Sway.

Stuart Hazelton, assistant head of Bolton Music Service, said: ‘Music Centre Presents is one of the highlights of the Bolton Music Service calendar, showcasing the work of the weekly bands, choirs and orchestras of Bolton Music Service.

"We have 35 ensembles taking part and 3 school wider opportunities ensembles from St. Mary’s Deane Primary, Eagley Infants and St. Bartholomew’s Primary, meaning that around 1000 children will be performing in the Victoria Hall across the week, many for the first time.

"The concert series opened with performances from 6 ensembles, including the Bolton Youth Concert Band under the direction of Daniel Chandler and accomplished solos from young trombonist Joshua Brierley and tuba player William Sloane, who have both progressed through Bolton Music Service.

"The diversity demonstrated across the ensembles was well received by an enthusiastic audience, some of whom were experiencing their first concert. "We hope that the people of Bolton will come along to support the young musicians."

The second night of Bolton Music Centre Presents will feature in tomorrow's Bolton News, including performances from Bolton Youth Brass Band and Ladybridge and Turton Junior Strings.

Tickets are available at £5 (accompanied under 19s free of charge) from http://gmmusichub.co.uk/bolton.