THE Halle Orchestra is to perform a gala concert in Darlington and run workshops for schoolchildren in the town to celebrate its three-year partnership with Durham Music Service.

The orchestra, now in its 158th season, is one of the UK's top symphonic ensembles with a history of acclaimed performances around the world, award-winning recordings, radio broadcasts and educational outreach programmes.

The visit is supported by Hummersknott Academy Trust, local businesses and cultural organisations including Creative Darlington and Darlington Building Society, as well as Arts Council England.

The day of the concert next month will include an afternoon performance with 650 pupils from primary schoolchildren which will be streamed live to local schools.

Stephen Wiper, Creative Darlington manager, said: "It’s a real coup for us to be able to welcome the Halle Orchestra to Darlington and we’re thrilled that it also offers a chance for local youngsters to take part in the musical workshops.”

Ian Robinson, deputy head of service at Durham Music Service, said: “This is a great opportunity for schoolchildren and the public in Darlington to see and hear one of the world’s great orchestras. Children will take instruments to the school concert and perform with the orchestra.”

The visit takes place on Thursday, June 23. The gala concert evening programme includes two works by Leonard Bernstein – Candide from the Operetta Candide and Mambo from West Side Story – music from Star Wars by John Williams and Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings.

The concert at the Dolphin Centre starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 and £5 for concessions and are available from the Dolphin Centre on 01325 406600 or healthydarlington.co.uk/dolphinevents.