A NORTH-EAST teen turned jazz sensation has landed a place on a prestigious American course.

Recently named the BBC’s first Young Jazz Musician of the Year, 17-year-old Alexander Bone is making a name for himself across the world.

The saxophonist, from Darlington, is currently preparing to jet off to California where he will take up a place at the world-famous Brubeck Institute.

Following his work with the National Youth Jazz Collective, Mr Bone recently became one of just three Brits to be offered a place on an intensive summer course run at the institute, named for the famed musician Dave Brubeck.

The teenager is now working to raise the £3,000 needed to fund the trip and is appealing for support in doing so.

He said: “This opportunity would be fantastic. I’ve always wanted to go to America and the opportunity to go on this course is a huge thing.

“The trip will be amazing – only a few people are selected for it and to be able to play with such a select bunch of people will be incredible but the barrier is raising enough money to do that.”

Musician dad Steve, who taught him to play, added: “The seeds of what he has planted are starting to bear fruit which is wonderful and this is an ideal opportunity to work with a lot of top players.”

In a bid to fund his trip, Mr Bone will perform at Al Forno’s in Darlington on Monday, May 26 and at Al Forno’s in Middlesbrough on Wednesday, May 28.

Mr Bone has already received support from MP Phil Wilson and organisations including Darlington Rotary Club and Iodem Solutions.

To offer support or sponsorship, email jumptheqmusic@gmail.com