[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This year schools from across East Durham came together to put on the first ever Blackhall Community Christmas Concert, held on 12 December in the Blackhall Community Centre.

The event saw children of all ages performing a range of Christmas music, supported by the Easington Colliery Band.

The concert was organised by Durham Music Trust and is part of their continued aim to encourage more children from County Durham to get involved with music. Many of the children performing at the concert had only been playing their instruments since September, so it was a fantastic opportunity for them to show what they had learnt.

As the title sponsor we were delighted to attend the event, and were represented by several members of staff including Practice Manager at Peterlee, Nigel Hudson.

Vicky Bates Deputy Head of Durham Music Service said: “Durham Music Service have been proud to work with local schools and Easington Colliery Brass Band to deliver the Blackhall Community Christmas Concert at the Blackhall Community Centre. There were over 100 musicians performing to a sold-out audience. It is wonderful to be able to put on events such as these which showcase the depth of musical talent in our area and help bring the local community together. The financial support from Bailey Group Chartered Accountants was a massive help in bringing this all together.

“We have received so much positive feedback from local parents, children, schools and Monk Hesleden Parish Council that we hope to repeat the event again next year. The event also raised £107.92 for the Bradley Lowery Foundation due to really generous donations from all attending.”

Chris Bailey CEO of the Bailey Group said “We were delighted to support the Blackhall Community Christmas Concert, it’s fantastic to see so many children from across the area taking part and getting involved in music.

“Events like these are great for the local community, so we were very happy to show our support.”

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]