AN eighteen-piece school band from Chaddesley Corbett will be performing at the International Upton Jazz Festival.

The Groove Diggers of Winterfold House School is made up of 10 to 13 year olds and will be performing at the Best of Young Jazz marquee.

Head of music Jerry Price, who set up the band 10 years ago, said the band is looking forward to the festival, which takes place in Upton from tomorrow until Sunday.

Jerry said: “It’s always wonderful, playing the Best of Young Jazz at Upton. It’s a wonderful stage and a lovely set up.

"It’s a great audience and it gives the children the chance to play a proper festival in a friendly and safe environment.”

The festival includes about 60 concerts over the three days from internationally-renowned jazz musicians, including eight British Jazz Award winners.

There are Mardi Gras-style parades through the streets and a jazz church service. Pubs and clubs across the town will be turned into venues, along with a festival marquee.

Eight members of the Grove Diggers play at county level and the lead singer, 11-year-old Lucie Fletcher, recently won the open mic competition in London and has sung at the 02 Arena.

Jerry added: “She’s totally awesome, amazing. She could go on to do brilliant things. We’ll be playing some poppy stuff, Adele – because Lucie sounds just like Adele – some Broadway numbers, some funky numbers. It’s going to be a very upbeat set.”

The band is also on the bill of two local festivals in Bewdley and Stourport this summer.

For more information visit uptonjazz.co.uk