SOUTHAMPTON'S first ever professional orchestra will be launched with a debut classical concert at the Turner Sims this weekend.

són promises to invigorate the South's music scene with a programme of top-notch performances in established concert halls and more unusual venues.

Discovering Southampton was the largest city in the UK with no professional orchestra, celebrated conductor Robin Browning and team set about putting that right.

He told the Daily Echo: "I'm convinced that the city, and the south of the UK as a whole, is not only ready for something like són, but is desperately in need of it.

"són will contribute enormously towards the region's cultural enrichment. We're already inspiring Southampton's youngsters through education projects, and building bridges with all kinds of people, whether community musicians, young professionals or local artists.

"Now we're ready to show our new audience how brilliantly we play."

són's repertoire includes a diverse mix of styles from baroque and Beethoven to minimalism, film scores and the newest of young composers.

The launch concert, Sibelius Unwrapped, features music by the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius whose 150th Anniversary is celebrated this year.

Tickets are available from 023 8059 5151 or turnersims.co.uk To find out more about són, visit thesonproject.com

són, meaning sound or music in old English, are joined on stage by broadcaster and pianist David Owen Norris to introduce music lovers to Sibelius' greatest works, including the ever-popular Valse Triste.

The orchestra, which is privately funded, will feature 35 performers on Sunday but it could rise to 45 players at some events.

Audiences can also enjoy free tea and cake during the interval or Sibelius Unwrapped, which takes place at 3pm on Sunday.