MUSIC will be transporting audiences from the bullfighting arenas of Spain to the ice rinks of an Olympic arena this weekend.

Bolton Symphony Orchestra (BSO) has been inspired by the musicians of France for its forthcoming concert.

French Connections will feature a collection of composers from across the Channel with famous pieces by Ravel, Debussy and Bizet.

Among the compositions being played at the Victoria Hall on Saturday night is one piece which has memories for classical musical lovers and sports fans alike - Ravel’s Bolero.

The piece was famously used as the accompanying music to Torvill and Dean’s Gold Medal ice skating performance at the 1984 Olympic Games.

BSO publicity officer Andrew Morley said: “It is one of the highlight pieces - unfortunately we were not able to get Torvill and Dean or an ice rink for the performance!

“We have quite a few musicians on stage for the concert, including a big percussion section - we even have a snare drum which is famously used in the Bolero.

“Also being played, will be Bizet’s popular opera, Carmen, which has many well-known tunes including the Habanera and the Toreador Song, which are amongst the best known of all operatic arias. We also have our very own principal clarinetist, Lynn Threadgold, who will be playing Debussy’s Premiere Rhapsodie for Clarinet. That should be another highlight for the concert.”

The BSO has become known for its guest conductors and helping to foster young talent - and this year is no exception.

Taking the helm of the orchestra, under the lead of Helen Brackley Jones, will be Ellie Slorach and Robin Wallington, post-graduate students at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.

Mr Morley said: “As part of their studies they have to conduct a good, established, amateur orchestra.

“It is really good for us to be able to get talent like this into Bolton.

“Last year we had two other conductors from the same course and both of them were brilliant.

“These students both show great promise for highly successful future conducting careers. I’m sure they will both go a long way as the college has a really good reputation for producing fine music students.”

As with all BSO events anyone under the age of 19 can attend the concert for free.

Mr Morley added “Not many take advantage of the offer, which is a shame.

“We want young people to have the advantage of being able to get to hear this famous music.”

The concert starts at 7.30pm and ticket cost £10 from the Victoria Hall Box office; Booths Music Shop, Churchgate; at www.boltonsymphonyorchestra.org.uk; and on the door on the afternoon of the concert.