FORTY-ONE Southampton youngsters had the opportunity of a lifetime when they performed in Disneyland. The talented musicians from Showcase Young Players Orchestra and Young Voices Choir auditioned in March to perform at the Paris theme park - and were chosen from hundreds of others to perform as part of the Performing Arts Programme.

And they were trained by none other than The Voice semi-finalist and Rownhams resident Harry Fisher - who is assistant musical director of the choir.

Showcase Music Academy founder Alex Pope said the group were "buzzing" to be picked to perform the Mickey Mouse March at Disneyland on the year of iconic character's 90th Birthday.

He added: "We took 41 children from the Showcase Young Players Orchestra and Young Voices Choirs to perform two shows at the Videopolis Theatre in Disney's main Paris park to packed audiences.

"We were able to subsidise the trip to ensure that members were not financially restricted from coming. We also took in the sights with a visit up the Eiffel Tower as well as more performances at the renowned Val d'Europe shopping centre.

"We run our Showcase Young Players Orchestra and Young Voices choirs weekly in Southampton and welcome any budding singers or musicians to join us.

"We do not charge memberships for our ensembles making them as accessible as possible to those who need something life changing the most.

"Music opens doors that help young people pass from school to the world around them. "The future of our world depends on providing our young people with a complete education that must include access to music and the arts and we are so proud to offer these experiences for free to hundreds of local children."

There are two choirs a week - on Wednesday at Oakwood Primary School from 4.30-6pm and Thursday at Bitterne Primary School from 4.30-6pm.

The Young Players Orchestra invites musicians of all abilities on Saturdays from 10am - 12pm at Testlands Hub in Green Lane.

Those interested in joining can simply email alex@showcasemusicschool.com