A CLARINETTIST from Witham says she is looking forward to staking her claim on a special prize.

Louise Chappell is up for Essex Young Musician of the Year and will compete with 15 others for the prestigious title next month.

Louise, who went to Notley High School, said: “The Essex Young Musician of the Year competition is such a high profile event in the area and I look forward to the intense preparation required and the ability to hear and learn from the other talented musicians taking part.”

Louise already has a host of public performances under her belt, including with the London City Philharmonic and at the London 2012 Paralympics.

She wants to pursue a career in musical theatre and is currently working with West End musicians.

She said: “I have the skills on multiple instruments to be able to do so and I love working in the unpredictability of live theatre.

“I’m currently working with West End musicians and I’m loving it.

“In addition, I’m starting to make a name for myself as an orchestral bass clarinettist and I’d love to continue with elements of this throughout my career.”

The competition is at Budworth Hall, Ongar, on July 7. Tickets cost £10.

The first round begins at 11.45am.

The public final will take the form of a concert at 6.30pm.