Singers and musicians from the island have the chance to perform with The Halle orchestra, led by, this summer.

The Isle of Man Arts Council is bringing the world-famous orchestra from Manchester to the island for performances at the Villa Marina on June 17 and 18.

As part of the orchestra’s Come and Play with The Halle initiative, local people who sing or play an orchestral or band instrument, guitar or ukulele have the chance to be part of the Sunday afternoon performance, starting at 2pm.

Geoff Corkish MLC, chairman of the Arts Council, said: ’This is a unique and exciting opportunity for local singers and musicians to perform with one of the world’s best known and most critically acclaimed orchestras.

’This ties in with the Programme for Government, in which we pledge to nurture culture and the arts by encouraging creative activity.’

Four works - two choral and two instrumental - have been selected:

Believe by Lin Marsh

Super hero Blues by Neil Bennison and Steve Pickett, which was specifically written for Come and Play events

Cuckoo Polka by Johann Strauss

Tequila by Chuck Rio

Participants will meet in advance to rehearse them.

Rehearsals will be run by Maggie Richardson, head of for the Department of Education and Children’s music service.

Rehearsals take place at St Ninian’s Lower School on Thursday, May 25, and Wednesday, June 14, from 7pm to 8pm. Participants must commit to attend one or both of these sessions.

There is no restriction on age or ability but participants must be able to read music.

There will be two levels of music: one for players who haven’t been learning for long and another for those who are more experienced.

To register your interest in taking part, contact the Arts Council on 01624 694598 or [email protected] by Friday, April 28.

Tickets for The Hallé are on sale via www.villagaiety.com or the ticket hotline on 600555, concessions are available including a family ticket concession available for the Sunday afternoon performance.