A GROUP of talented young musicians in Christchurch will perform a special concert at the Priory next week.

Christchurch Music Centre’s 50th anniversary Christmas concert will take place on December 15 at 7pm. The concert will also raise money for Julia’s House.

The group was formed in 1968, with the original aim of combining local schools for a performance in the Priory and on the BBC.

It went onto become a weekly music group after parents called for it to continue.

In 2010, funding cuts meant the council could no longer support the group, however, parents stepped in and established it as a community interest company.

For the past year, the group has been fully independent and volunteer run.

Polly Philips, the band’s music director, said: “It would be great if we could perform to a full house not only because we want to raise as much money as possible for Julia’s House but also because it is a great opportunity and experience for the band to perform to a large appreciative audience.”

Tickets can be purchased from the Christchurch Priory Box Office, or online at christchurchpriory.org/event/purchase-tickets/12672.