Young Musicians practise at an earlier event. Pic: Croydon Music and Arts

Young musicians will be able to showcase their talent as libraries across Croydon host live concerts throughout June.

The events  – dubbed Off the Shelf, are free to attend and will show off some of the boroughs primary-age talents.

Barbara Peacock, Croydon’s executive director for people, said: “These shows won’t only give people the opportunity to hear just how talented the performers are, they will also show how our libraries can be used for so much more than just borrowing books.”

CMA encourages young musicians at its event. Pic: Croydon Music and Arts

Organised by Croydon Music and Arts (CMA), Off the Shelf hopes the concerts will encourage children to pick up an instrument.

Peacock said: “Learning an instrument is a hugely enjoyable thing to do and allows children to fully express their creative natures.”

Music teachers will also be present at all events to give guidance and their expertise to the budding musicians.

CMA, the councils music service is also introducing Star Classes, which will provide free classes to any child in years 3-6 to learn an instrument of their choice.

They believe learning to play an instrument is ‘just the beginning’. As they continue to provide music groups ranging from bands to orchestras, choirs and more.

The first event is to be at Selsdon library on June 5, with all concerts at 4.30pm.

Followed by:

June 12: Central library

June 12: Coulsdon library

June 13: Bradmore Green

June 14: Thornton Heath library

June 16: Shirley library

June 19: Norbury library

June 21: Sanderstead library

June 22: New Adiington library

June 22: Ashburton library

Further information can be found here