THIS St Patrick’s Day will have a very special meaning to some very lucky young pianist from across the Borough of Swindon. Young people up to the age of 18 can sign up to take part in the Swindon Youth Piano Festival held at Commonweal’s C6 auditorium on Thursday, March 17.

The event offers those taking part the opportunity to play on a Yamaha grand piano that once belonged to multi-platinum singer songwriter, Jamie Cullum.

The aim of the festival is to showcase the best young pianists in the town.

“We were very fortunate last January to win Jamie’s beloved Yamaha Grand Piano, by popular vote following a national competition," said Josie Williams the school’s Community Arts Development Officer who is organising the festival alongside Commonweal’s Music Leader Kirsty Driver.

"The piano is used on a regular basis for piano lessons and concerts and itt is fantastic that we are able to have this wonderful piano for all young people in Swindon to play on.

"It really does make a difference to inspire the next generation,”

Prior to the evening concert, students will have the opportunity to take part in a masterclass with music teacher Jon Driver who will also close the recital with the Edvard Grieg Wedding Day at Troldhauen, Op. 65, no. 6 Ernst von Dohnanyi Rhapsody in C, Op. 11, no. 3

The masterclass aims to give students tips on how to improve their performances and piano technique.

"The event is a sharing opportunity and not a competition," said Josie.

"Any young person across the borough of Swindon can apply irrespective of ability."

Anyone who has a child, or knows of a child who would benefit from taking part in this event they should email Josie on: josie@commonweal.co.uk or tel 01793 427860 to obtain an application form.

The deadline for application is tomorrow, February, 12 2016.

Jamie paid a visit to the school in September for an exclusive performance to launch the Swindon Youth Piano Festival where he performed and talked about his career to an invited audience.