Hundreds of children from across Hull attended the first MusicHull! A Music Open Day last weekend, with many picking up a musical instrument for the very first time.

More than 300 young people walked through the door of Hull’s Albemarle Music Centre for the free event which was one of just three nationally, as part of a collaboration with Yamaha.

The day was led by Hull Music Service, lead partner for Hull and NE Lincs Music Hubs, to give children of all ages the rare opportunity to try their hand at a wide range of instruments including brass, woodwind and percussion, as well as DJing.

James Dickinson, head of Hull Music Service, said: “I was delighted to see so many young people come through our doors on Saturday and especially by the number who were experiencing playing music for the first time.

“It was brilliant to have the rehearsal rooms packed out with children trying everything from drums and xylophones to DJ decks. If the noise is anything to go by, they had a brilliant time!

“If you enjoyed your day and would like to know more about how to take part in music at the centre, you can get in touch by emailing music.service@hullcc.gov.uk or by asking your school music teacher. The Albemarle Music Centre is open to everyone and there’s nothing more rewarding than giving young people their first experience of what could become a lifelong passion.”

Saxophonist Ellie Sax, best known for her Ibiza residencies, joined DJ LBW for a series of workshops and performances. Trumpeter and music producer, Louis Dowdeswell, who has performed alongside the likes of Michael Buble and Peter Andre, also inspired visitors with his solo performances and playing alongside the Royal Marines Band.

The band played alongside a group of young musicians before performing for the public outside the Albemarle Music Centre, ahead of their Hull Minster concert later that day.

Jeremy Smith, communication and brand expert at Yamaha said: “Music is also a social force that brings people together, to dance, sing, cheer and share good times. We want to inspire passion in the next generation of music makers and help them take a step forward to express their individuality, emotion and creativity. It was great to see so many new music makers in Hull enjoy music for the first time.”

You can find out more about how to participate in music in Hull here.