Christmas has come early this year after a group of young musicians won an award for their talents.

The Chiltern Music Academy Concert Band was presented with the Platinum Award at the National Concert Band Festival.

Their spectacular performance gained them a coveted place in the National Final.

The CMA was launched in September as a charity governed by parents and students and already has more than 350 members.

Andy Rogers, who will become new Principal of CMA in January, said: “It is a testament to the supportive community of the CMA that these musicians have come so far in such a short time.”

Acting Principal of CMA, Sally Stafford, said: “We are delighted with our thriving musical community, and would like to thank all those who have contributed in so many ways to our success. We are already expanding our current provision and have developed our “Springers” programme, a unique music foundation course for children in Years 1 and 2. From January, the Springers will enjoy singing, percussion and recorder in fun-filled sessions intended to give them the basic skills needed to create and maintain a lifelong love of music.”

More details can be found on the CMA website www.chilternmusicacademy.org.