A TEENAGE saxophonist from Ulverston has landed the opportunity of a lifetime after signing a professional record deal.

Jess Gillam, 19, has been signed to Decca Classics as its first saxophone player.

She said: “I’m so excited to become the first saxophonist ever to join Decca Classics.

“The saxophone is such a dynamic, versatile and expressive instrument and I cannot wait to record some of my favourite music and share my passion for music and saxophone with as many people as possible.”

Earlier this year it was announced that Jess would play the last night of The Proms in September and was one of the star acts at the Classic BRIT Awards.

Jess will be the youngest ever female soloist in the prestigious Last Night of the Proms at London’s Royal Albert Hall, on September 8, plus she will also perform in the BBC Young Musician Prom on July 15 to celebrate 40 years of the high profile young musicians competition.

Jess has been playing sax since she was seven, influenced by her father Doug, who was musical director for the acclaimed - but now defunct - Furness-based Barracudas carnival band.

Her talent was first shared with the world when she was just 17. She was the first saxophonist to win the Woodwind Final of BBC Young Musician of the Year in 2016.

She has since gone on to play internationally, as well as on some of the most impressive stages in the UK. Last year she performed at the Royal Albert Hall, playing as part of the John Williams Prom.

Rebecca Allen, president of Decca Records, said: “Jess is spearheading a new generation of young female artists whose captivating personality and compelling musicianship offer a bright future to classical music.”

Even though her star continues to rise, Jess also focuses on promoting other young musicians, and harnessing their talent, serving as a patron for Awards for Young Musicians.