City orchestra nominated for national award

Voting opens on 3 February

A symphony orchestra known for its work with children and young people has been nominated for a national award.

Wolverhampton Symphony Orchestra has been shortlisted for the Royal Philharmonic Society award.

The music company has worked with the city council to deliver free concerts for schools while also offering free tickets for children to attend its annual concert.

Conductor Peter Morris described the nomination as a "surprise, pleasure and a privilege" and winning would be "an endorsement of our city's great musical heritage".

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, at City of Wolverhampton Council, said the symphony orchestra played a valuable role in the local community "bringing classical music to a wide range of people".

She added: "It is well deserving of national recognition."

The Royal Philharmonic Society Awards celebrate achievements in the classical music world as well as awarding talented musicians.

The group has been nominated in the Award for Inspiration category that recognises achievements of non-professional musical groups nationwide. The recipient is chosen by public vote.

Votes can be cast on the RPS awards website from 3 February, and winners will be announced at the ceremony on 6 March at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.