AN annual concert for Gwent students that takes place in a major Cardiff venue has been cancelled this year following budget cuts.

Newport council education cabinet member Bob Poole says Gwent Music Support Service has cancelled its annual summer showcase at St David's Hall to concentrate on becoming self-financing.

The last summer showcase event in Cardiff took place on July 2012.

GMSS is undergoing a review of its events and activities following a cut of funding from Newport of £292,000, and is restructuring its staff.

Events like the showcase will only be able to go ahead if financing or sponsorship is found.

Councillor Poole made the comments in a written answer to a question from Councillor David Atwell.

Cllr Atwell asked he had noticed that many events have been cancelled, with St David's Hall in Cardiff just one example.

He said: "This proves to me that your alternative ways of funding, is simply not working, what plans are now in place to resolve your earlier decision?"

Cllr Poole wrote that following the recent cuts to the music service it now undergoing a full review of their events and activities at both local and Greater Gwent level.

"The service is also going through a process of a staffing restructure, in order to face all the challenges that lie ahead," he said.

He said with that in mind it was decided to cancel the annual showcase event at St David’s Hall, Cardiff and some other Greater Gwent events.

"Events such as this will only be able to take place if financing or sponsorship is found." he said.

"With the service moving towards a more self-financing model, time will be needed to build new partnerships and sponsors, and we hope that such an important event like the summer showcase will take place again in 2014."

Cllr Atwell said the showcase is a "real occasion" for GMSS' students that attracts "almost capacity" crowds.

"The children work very hard over the year. This is real opportunity to play in St David's Hall which is the place to be playing for young people," he said.

"I'm so disappointed for them," the councillor added.