Children from the LS18 Rocks music school in Leeds have joined with members of Manchester’s famed Hallé Orchestra for a thrilling rock meets classical collaboration. The two musical genres have put aside traditional Yorkshire/Lancashire rivalries to produce three stunning pieces of work that will be premiered with a special performance on Saturday night as the full Hallé Orchestra perform at Leeds Town Hall.

       Over recent weeks a team of professional Hallé musicians and their real-life school of rock counterparts have travelled back and forth across the Pennines to create a trio of climate change protest songs which they will not only perform live, but also aim to record and release.

       The exciting collaboration fuses classical instruments including double bass, flute and trumpet alongside a full rock band sound incorporating electric guitars, drums, bass, keyboards and vocals.

       LS18 Rocks vocalist Eve Banham, 15, said: “I have absolutely loved having the chance to work with professional musicians.

       "It has been a totally new experience, I have learnt so much during our rehearsal sessions and it has been really inspirational.

       “Being able to share my ideas with the songs has also allowed my confidence to grow and develop my own musical skills. I cannot wait to perform our songs live, it’s going to be awesome.”

       Hallé bass player Bea Schirmer said: “This is the most talented and well prepared group of young people I have ever worked with.

       "They have great song-writing skills and are already accomplished musicians. LS18 Rocks is an excellent resource and allows these young people to develop their talents.”

       LS18 Rocks musical director Jonnie Khan said: “For our young people to get the chance to work with the Hallé has been a totally inspirational experience and it has been wonderful to see how the two genres have been able to blend.

       “The young people have been challenged like never before by working with professional musicians who are at the top of their game, and I am so proud of how they have risen to the challenge.

       “Climate change is something that is of crucial importance to younger generations and they are determined to spread the message through their music.”

       The collaboration emerged after LS18 Rocks produced a moment-in-time song last Christmas called Virtual Hugs, which the young people produced in tribute to their grandparents.

       The song and video attracted headlines around the world and the school has now resumed work on a Climate Change project entitled Up In Flames ？ which the songs with the Hallé will be part of.