THE National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain has a lively disposition and its date with The Sage Gateshead promises to enhance its reputation.

It’s the orchestra’s first concert at The Sage since it was announced last month that it would enter into a ground-breaking five-year partnership with the concert hall.

The 161 musicians of the National Youth Orchestra (NYO) have enjoyed an Easter residency at Durham University working with professional musicians and composers, and culminating in the concert on Thursday.

A night dedicated to dance music will feature Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances, Ravel’s La Valse, George Benjamin’s Dance Figures and music from Powder her Face by Thomas Adès.

To understand the moves behind the music, choreographer Francesca Jaynes has taught the orchestra to waltz and tango, and Northern Sinfonia principals have been working with the musicians during rehearsals. The NYO has also worked alongside the regional youth orchestra Young Sinfonia.

Current members of the NYO include violinists Lucy Bloxham from Whickham, Naomi Watson from Durham and harpist Emily Hoile of Newcastle.

The orchestra is conducted by Paul Daniels, who says: “I can’t think of a more energetic and expert bunch of committed musicians than the NYO to explore the contrasts and demands of this musical adventure. I’ve had some tremendous times conducting this great orchestra over the years, and I can’t wait for this year’s fix.”

A dance-themed composition, written by six of the musicians, will be performed on the concourse at 6.30pm at The Sage prior to the concert in Hall One.

The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain performs tomorrow at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 for under-25s. Contact: (0191) 443-4666.