A budding young musician has accepted a place in a national children’s orchestra just two years after picking up an instrument.

Joel Solomons, of Shenley, was one of the 800 applicants who auditioned for the National Children’s Orchestra of Great Britain (NCO) in the Autumn.

The nine-year-old found out he had won a place in the under-11 group this week, despite only starting to play the clarinet two years ago.

Every year the National Children's Orchestra auditions more than 800 children, with the successful applicants getting the chance to perform to the public in a full symphony orchestra.

Joel said: “It’s great to have the chance to play with other musicians of such a high standard and who are of my own age. I am also really looking forward to the week away with the group in August.”

The Aldenham School pupil will be among 500 children aged between seven and 14 in the group, which is split into five age banded orchestras.

In the summer Joel will be spending a week away with his group on a week-long course of rehearsals, and choir practice as well as being treated to team activities such as swimming, sports, games, competitions and treasure hunts. At the end of the week the children will hold a public performance to showcase the work they have studied throughout the course.

Laura Parkin, Joel's Music teacher, said: "Joel has done incredibly well particularly given the comparatively short time that he's been learning the clarinet.

"We are certain his chirpy personality and talents will see him go far on the musical scene.

"He's been sharing his talents at school with pupils and staff alike in concerts, assemblies and wind band rehearsals and it is a treat to hear him play - we are all very proud of Joel for this very unique and fine achievement."

As well as performing to friends, family and concert-goers in England the orchestra undertakes trips abroad with past groups travelling to China and the volcanic island of Ischia.

The NCO is considered among the best children’s ensembles in the country, with former winner of the BBC’s Young Musician of the Year Nicola Benedetti and principal guest conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra Daniel Harding among its alumni.