AS someone who has never mastered an instrument, and admits to being tone-deaf, I am always in awe of those who are musically gifted.

That admiration was heightened last night when primary school youngsters joined with their teenage counterparts to showcase the depth of musical talent that there clearly is in Bolton.

This was the penultimate night in the series of four Bolton music Centre Presents evenings.

Bolton Intermediate Wind Ensemble began the evening under the musical direction of Mrs Sandra Scattergood. Highlight was their wonderful rendition of World In Union. Then it was on to the visiting choir from St John's (Bromley Cross) RC Primary School. Their clear intonation and enthusiasm was a joy.

Bolton Beginner Recorder Ensemble joined forces with Bolton Youth Recorder Ensemble for a lovely version of the Toy Symphony. I never realised the much maligned recorder could sound quite so melodious.

A new item at this year's Music Centre Presents, is the introduction of a student soloist. Robert Turner, percussionist, showed just why he has won a place at the prestigious Royal Northern College of Music, in Manchester, with a superb performance of Double Think, followed by Tricks with Sticks.

After the interval it was the turn of the more established ensembles. Bolton Youth Clarinet Choir performed a mixture of well known pieces, including the beautiful Londonderry Air, followed by the accomplished New Century Strings ensemble who performed the Brandenburg Concerto No3 in G.

Bolton Youth Brass Band finished with a variety of familiar tunes including the haunting All Through The Night.

The variety of the evening was breathtaking, and left me wondering . . . now which instrument would I like to pick up first . . ? -Beverly Greenberg