HUNDREDS of York pupils are preparing to take part in a string of concerts to showcase their artistic talents.

The events, featuring more than 250 students from City of York Council’s Arts Academy, will feature performances of music, songs and dance from a variety of different groups of young people aged between four and 18.

Alison Goffin, the council’s arts education manager, said: “Having this opportunity improves students’ skills and self-confidence, as well as being a fun way to make new friends.

“It also gives them a chance to play to new audiences, and some of our band members will be travelling to the French Alps next summer to take part in a concert tour.”

To buy tickets or details about York Arts Academy, phone 01904 554660.

The shows include:

• Saturday, December 11, 11.30am, Canon Lee School Hall. Breakdance, Move On & Move It creative dance groups, early years groups, First Strings Ensemble, String Orchestra, Choir.

• Saturday, December 11, 7pm, National Centre for Early Music. York Arts Academy Symphony Orchestra, String Quartets, Percussion Ensemble.

Tickets £4, concessions £2.

• Sunday, December 12, 2pm, Central Hall, University of York.

Community Carol Concert.

Tickets available from Grand Opera House.

York Arts Academy Senior Concert Band, Intermediate Band and Big Band.

• Wednesday, December 15, 6pm, Millthorpe School Hall. Guitar groups, Umbu African Drummers, folk fiddle groups, Jazz Band, York Youth Brass and Woodwind Ensemble, rock bands, song writers, String Quartets. Tickets £4, concessions £2.