A GROUP of 650 students from across Gwent will be performing at the Royal Albert Hall next month.

Caerphilly Music and Gwent Music students have been working with Welsh composer Dr Daniel Bickerton for a piece which will be performed at Music for Youth’s School Prom at the Royal Albert Hall on November 16.

Mr Bickerton, who is also director of undergraduate music studies at Cardiff University, was asked to compose the piece, which explores the relationship young people have with both music and technology as a glue for connecting with each other.

Yesterday [WED], all the students met at Newport’s Riverfront to rehearse the piece - #CONNECT - all together for the first time.

Cain Rees, 10, Year 6 at Ysgol Gymraeg, in Cwmbran, said: “I’ve been in the choir for three years and we’ve been rehearsing for this performance for a couple of weeks.

“I like it when all the music adds with each other.

“I’m really excited about the performance, I’ve never been to London before.”

Molly Hole, 14, Year 10 student at Monmouth Comprehensive, said: “I’ve been in the choir since I started in year 7.

“We’ve done a couple of performances before but this is a big opportunity, I’m really excited and I can’t wait to go to London.

“I’ve never been to the Royal Albert Hall before, it’s a big deal.

“I love performing, I get nervous, but it helps me to perform in a group.”

The performance is made up of a jazz orchestra, string and percussion ensemble, beatboxers, a massed choir and individual vocalists and experiments with modern sounds and styles.

Mr Bickerton said: “It’s the first time I’m involved in a project of this magnitude, it’ll be a real pleasure to perform in the Royal Albert Hall my own work.

“It’s an amazing opportunity.”

Those interested in attending the performance, can buy ticket from the Royal Albert Hall at royalalberthall.com/tickets or by phone on 0207 589 8212.