THE first ever public performance of Devon's newest string ensemble took place at Fairplace Church last weekend.

The Mandolin Orchestra of Devon performed their first concert last Saturday night, directed by Matt Norman from Wren Music.

Since the orchestra's inception six months ago, it has gained 25 members who have been learning pieces specifically written for mandolin ensemble. Their repertoire is drawn from the 'golden age' of mandolin orchestral music in the early 1900s, alongside arrangements of new and traditional pieces.

Matt Norman is building a reputation as one of the leading lights of the new generation of Devon-based folk artists. He is an innovative and entertaining musician, exploring traditional and contemporary English music as a performer, arranger, composer and songwriter.

The orchestra were also joined by special guests Rob Murch on banjo and guitarist and melodeon player Mark Bazeley from the Dartmoor Pixie Band.

MOOD is open to players of all sizes of mandolin, from piccolo to mando-bass, as well as closely-related instruments such as the bouzouki.

The idea is to bring players together to meet each other, learn specific mandolin repertoire, and to develop technique and expertise while providing a relatively rare opportunity for mandolin players to play together.

For more information on the orchestra, call Wren Music on 01837 53754.