PLAYING an instrument in front of a panel of judges would be a daunting task for anyone.

But 12 talented youngsters had the added pressure of performing in front of the Duchess of Kent.

The young musicians, aged 10 to 17, were competing for a bursary of up to £3,000 from the Duchess' charity, Future Talent, which could set them on the path to a successful music career.

They had to perform two pieces in front of the panel and were grilled for 10 minutes about what music means to them and what they would do with the money should they win.

The Duchess, who worked as a primary school music teacher for 12 years, said: "It has been fantastic. The children have so much passion about music and it is clear it is a big part of their lives.

"Future Talent can give youngsters the opportunity to pursue something they really enjoy doing.

"I was very impressed by the range of skills these young people have and it will be a very difficult decision."

The youngsters attend Bolton Music Centre, off Junction Road, Deane, or receive lessons through Bolton Music Service and were selected from 55 who auditioned last month.

Vocalist Hannah King, aged 13, sang Eva Cassidy's Over the Rainbow, and a German song called Die Forelle, meaning "the trout".

The Turton High School pupil, who has had singing lessons for two years, said: "It was scary because I have not done a lot of performing before but the judges were encouraging and smiled.

"If I win the money I will spend it on a double bass and choral lessons."

Hannah Brett, aged 14, has been playing the violin for nine years.

She said: "I would love to win the money to buy a full size violin as the one I have at the moment is a three-quarter one.

"I would like to play professionally when I'm older in an orchestra and perform on BBC programmes."

Bolton School pupil Lucy Sanderson, aged 17, plays the French horn.

She said: "I was a bit nervous but it was a good experience.

"I love playing the French horn because it has a wonderful sound."

The Duchess chose only two towns - Bolton and Oldham - to take part in the charity's pilot Future Champions competition, launched in conjunction with Manchester's famous Hallé symphony orchestra in September, 2007.

Bolton and Oldham were chosen because of their well-established music services and good working relationships with the Hallé.

Gold, Silver or Bronze bursaries worth, £3,000, £2,000 and £1,000, can be spent on courses, tours, instruments or specialist lessons.