STUDENTS in Tavistock College's jazz band packed up their instruments recently to embark on a tour, showcasing their music to audiences across the county.

The three day tour, which has never been done before, saw the 28 strong band play for audiences at Spring House in Peter Tavy, Glenorchy United Reformed Church in Exmouth, Okehampton College and Princesshay Shopping Centre in Exeter.

The tour started off with engineers at Plymouth Sound taking a professional recording of the students performing their favourite songs.

Head of music at the college Sarah Pappin said: 'It was a very special experience and an opportunity very rarely given to school level ensembles.

'The students did not seem at all fazed by the occasion and were extremely professional throughout.'

The engineers mixed, mastered and put the recording of the jazz band onto CD.

Sarah said she thought the tour was well received at all venues: 'Ever since we got back emails and letters have been flooding in from the public extending their thanks and congratulations to the students for their performances.

'Many have been from passers by and holiday makers who couldn't believe we were a school jazz band. Others came from music teachers on holiday from up country, the principal of Okehampton College and even a member of the BBC Jazz Orchestra — it's all a bit overwhelming actually.

'The way the students conducted themselves over the three days was nothing short of exemplary. A trip of this magnitude would never have happened if it wasn't for the dedication of these very talented students.

'We are now planning a summer tour to our local feeder primary schools culminating in a collaborative outdoor concert with Okehampton College's Big Band.'