North Ayrshire Schools’ Senior Concert Band hit the right note recently, winning the top award at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF).

Competing in the Youth Wind Band – County Class category, they won the prestigious Platinum title after giving a show-stopping performance in Warwick on Sunday, April 9.

The talented team – comprising 36 pupils from the area’s secondary schools - performed three competition pieces: Exultation by Philip Sparke; Sleep by Eric Whitaker; and Into the Light by Jay Bocock.

Having taken home the coveted Platinum Award only five months ago at the regional heats, the band has held onto the top spot, winning the Platinum Award this weekend at the all-important national stage.

The local band has a long history of achievements at the national heat of the NCBF - winning Platinum in 2015, Gold in 2016 and Platinum again in 2017.

Mae Murray, Music Service Manager, said: “I can’t express how proud I am of this talented group of young musicians.

“Each and every one of them has put in a great amount of effort and they did not disappoint when they got on that stage on Sunday.

“Their performance perfectly showcased their talents and coming home with the Platinum award is the cherry on top.”

Chief Executive of North Ayrshire Council, Elma Murray, said: “These exceptional young people are a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication and commitment.

“They are great ambassadors for North Ayrshire and a true inspiration to all. “