TWO jazz education groups are celebrating after winning a national award for their commitment to music education.

Southampton Music Hub and Hampshire Music Hub have had praise heaped upon them for their commitment to teaching youngsters about jazz.

The Will Michael Award for Jazz Education is presented annually by UK Jazz Services to recognise excellence and outstanding commitment to aspiring musicians.

A joint bid by Southampton and Hampshire Music Hubs fought off various other regional authorities to be named the best in the UK at London’s Southbank Centre.

Alongside several outstanding youth jazz groups, including the Southampton Youth Jazz Orchestra (SYJO), young musicians have enjoyed participating in free improvisation workshops, masterclasses and working with leading pros.