SWINDON Young Musicians are celebrating 50 golden years of making sweet music.

The young singers and instrumentalists are marking the special anniversary by doing what they do best, playing music in a number of concerts and events.

On Saturday, February 20 both Swindon Young Musician Jazz Orchestra and bands from the SYM Rock School will perform at a Black Tie Dinner Dance supporting Friends of Swindon Young Musicians.

The dinner dance begins at 7pm in The Platform, Faringdon Road.

The aim of SYM, since it began, is to bring young people together in a social setting while enjoying making music.

The idea behind the different orchestras and bands, formed through SYM, is not only to improve the musical skills of the youngsters, but to lay good foundations for commitment, teamwork and discipline, which will stand them in good stead for the future.

SYM is under the umbrella of the Swindon Music Service, based in the Platform which has undergone a revamp, adding RockPods and a recording studio.

Tickets for the dinner dance, including a three-course meal, are £25 and are available from 01793 864891 or Holmes Music on 01793 526393.

– FLICKY HARRISON