THE Isle of Man Wind Orchestra is preparing for a busy Christmas period.

The orchestra will start the festive season with a concert at Ballacottier School on Thursday, December 1.

Members of the Ballacottier choir, led by conductor Katie Lawrence, will perform alongside the orchestra which has around 40 members.

Paul Dunderdale, the orchestra's musical director, said: "We are so pleased to be invited to perform at Ballacottier School. The combination of the school choir and the orchestra will provide a musical start to the festive season."

The concert will start at 7pm and will include seasonal music from the orchestra and choir. Admission is £5 for adults and free for children. All money raised will be split between the orchestra and the school.

Shoppers will also be able to hear the orchestra in Douglas town centre where they will be busking to raise money to help the orchestra continue to perform around the Island.

Michael Morrison, the chairman of the orchestra, said: "Orchestra members would welcome anybody who wishes to join them busking in Douglas. All you have to do is bring your woodwind or brass instrument and join in."

Performance times for the busking are available from the orchestra's website – www.iomwo.com.