Sir – The weekend before last, I had the exhilarating experience of witnessing the playing of the Oxfordshire Schools’ Symphony Orchestra at the Centre for Music and the Oxfordshire County Youth Orchestra at the Sheldonian Theatre.

The standing ovations given to both orchestras echoed the enthusiastic responses they had received during their resent respective tours of Spain and the Netherlands.

The standard of playing reflected musical skills and scholarship way beyond the ages of the musicians; not only the students, their parents and teachers should be congratulated but also Oxfordshire County Council.

At a time of financial stringency, councillors have shown vision and wisdom in ensuring the nationally acclaimed Oxford County Music Service is maintained as a beacon of encouragement within the community and as a national touchstone for excellence.

The dedication of young people, the commitment of parents, the skill of teachers and education administrators and the leadership of councillors, has and will enrich the lives of many both within and outside the county of Oxfordshire, congratulations and thank you.

Fred Nind, Bexleyheath