TALENTED teenagers across Renfrewshire are tuning up for a link with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) which could help them forge a career in music.

The orchestra is staging a two-day “Takeover” event on October 23 and 24, which ends with a special show in Paisley Town Hall as part of The Spree arts festival.

Around 50 pupils from all 11 high schools in Renfrewshire will work on every aspect of planning and staging the gig, guided by RSNO professionals.

The free concert will include music chosen by Renfrewshire school pupils in advance of Takeover and will feature works by Handel, Bach, Sir Henry Wood and Greenock-born 19th-century composer Hamish McCunn.

World-class musicians will mentor their younger counterparts while other students will work on marketing, press and PR, as well as fundraising, learning and orchestra management.

The link-up is taking place as part of Paisley’s bid to become UK City of Culture in 2021.

Jean Cameron, Paisley 2021 bid director, said: “It’s fantastic to be able to give young people opportunities to get involved in cultural activity and all of the benefits that brings.

“As Paisley bids to be UK City of Culture 2021, it also shows that we can bring artists of international repute here for local creative talent to learn from.

“We’re delighted to be working with the RSNO and the young people really are getting the chance to learn from the best in the business.”

RSNO head of learning and engagement Samantha Wright said: “Takeover provides a rare and valuable experience to those seeking to pursue a career in the arts and is intended to be challenging, stimulating and fun.

“You never know, we may very well have a future RSNO conductor or chief executive among our group.”

The Spree is taking place in partnership with Paisley bar Burger and Keg, as well as brewing giant Fosters, which will stage additional acts at the Burger and Keg Live Tent in Abbey Close during the festival.

More information can be found at burgerandkeg.co.uk.

The festival is also supported by EventScotland and the British Council.

Tickets and information are available online at www.thespree.co.uk and from the box office on 0300 300 1210.