OLDHAM showcased its wealth of talent at a week-long festival of music.

Audiences heard an eclectic mix of styles, from wind bands to rock groups, choirs to brass bands.

More than 1,500 musicians performed at the Queen Elizabeth Hall last week, with organisers hailing the first-ever Biggest Band Day at this year's event as nothing short of amazing.

Around 500 young children who began learning instruments in the past 12 to 18 months made music together on March 21.

Organisers Oldham Music Service said it hoped for a bigger and better celebration next year.

Gerard Booth, director of music, said: "The Biggest Band Day was one of the largest events that we have ever undertaken in Oldham and it was immensely satisfying to give so many young people a free opportunity to make music together.

"As those who heard the band perform will know, that so many beginner instrumentalists playing such a diverse range of instruments could come together during just one day and learn a selection of pieces so well, was nothing short of amazing.

"We hope to be able to repeat the experience again next year for a new cohort and make the day even better."

The event took place between March 19 and 25.