A young Moray musician has been named as one of the most promising in Scotland, and is preparing to show off her skills in the country’s capital.
Darcey Thomson, 13, will play the cello as part of the Junior National Youth Orchestra of Scotland’s (NYOS) summer concert.
The Speyside High School pupil had to go through a rigorous process to prove she was worthy of a place in the group.
Darcey said the experience was exciting – but not without its “nerve-wracking” moments.
She said: “I auditioned for the Junior NYOS in November last year, with a lot of encouragement from my music tutor, John Mustard.
“The standards are really high so it is rather nerve-wracking, and I had to put in a lot of practice.”
After making it through those auditions, Darcey was invited to take part in more sessions in Perth.
She and her fellow budding performers were put through their paces by practising for six hours three days in a row.
The course culminated with a preview concert at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland performing arts centre in Glasgow.
Darcey’s input during the high-stakes concert was judged by Holly Mathieson, a decorated conductor from New Zealand.
And after being given the stamp of approval, the Moray youngster will now play as part of the senior cello section at Edinburgh’s Greyfriar’s Kik on July 15.
She added: “We had amazing instructors and an inspirational conductor, in Holly Mathieson.
“For anyone who plays an instrument, I would totally recommend auditioning for NYOS as they are great fun and really develop your musical playing and confidence.”