COUNTY trumpet players really hit a high note when they received a masterclass from a world-renowned musician.

Jonathan Clarke is the principal trumpeter of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, and has previously played with orchestras in Portugal and the Netherlands as well as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Halle Orchestra in the UK.

When Stuart Essenhigh, who teaches the instrument at Hereford Cathedral School, heard that Mr Clarke was back in the UK for a few weeks, he decided to make the most of it, and set up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for eight Herefordshire trumpeters.

The students, who are all at an advanced level, each played a solo and were given advice by Mr Clarke on breathing techniques, musicianship and sound.

Mr Essenhigh, who has also played freelance for the Royal Philharmonic, said: "Mr Clarke also demonstrated his own ability and virtuosity by starting the evening playing Hanz Werner Henzes' Sonatina for solo trumpet.

"One of the most challenging pieces in the trumpet repertoire, it is very short, but requires great control and skill."

Mr Essenhigh added that all the students showed a lot of ability at what was a very successful evening.