VIOLINIST Lily Whitehurst shares the stage with the Westmorland Orchestra for its final concert of the season, performing Bruch’s Romance in A minor.

The exciting young soloist has an illustrious track record and has recently joined the exalted ranks of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. She also plays with other illustrious ensembles such as the Hallé, Manchester Camerata, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Northern Sinfonia, Northern Chamber Orchestra and Sinfonia Cymru.

Lily - who was a member of the award-winning Gaskell String Quartet - has previously worked with the 'wonderful' Westmorland's highly regarded conductor, Richard Howarth. However, the Saturday, May 18, concert at Kendal Leisure Centre's Westmorland Hall will be her first musical foray into Cumbria. "I always love working with Richard so I’m sure this concert is going to be very special," explained the Pembrokeshire-based musician.

"I cannot wait to join the Westmorland Orchestra to play this fantastic music. I’ve never performed in the Lake District before; the music is new to me, the place is new to me and the orchestra is new to me. It’s going to be a bunch of exciting firsts."

The Westmorland programme also includes Schubert’s Symphony No 6 in C and Brahms Serenade No 1 in D.

Tickets are available from orchestra members, Kendal's Brewery Arts Centre as well as available at Kendal Leisure Centre on the night.

Those under 19 can attend for free.

After its May concert, the 'wonderful' Westmorland is not usually heard until its December concert. However, this year some of the players will perform around Kendal town centre on Global Make Music Day on June 21.