Although this is an extreme case, the service does help thousands of children each year in many different ways, by giving instrumental, vocal and drama tuition, encouraging them to reach their dreams and – most of all – enjoy their talent.

And many of the young musicians go on to successful careers, with the alumni including an oboist in the Berlin Philharmonic, a trombonist who plays with pop singer Lily Allen and a nationally-recognised conductor.

Based in Northampton, but with branches across the county, the Music and Performing Arts Service is a hive of activity seven days a week.

There is a range of orchestras, bands, choirs and ensembles supported by tuition from more than 500 music and drama teachers.

Director Peter Dunkley said: "Practical experience in the arts can make such a difference to a child's life and we've found some who struggle in standard education often excel in a group outside of school.

"It can be a way for youngsters to have a focus in their life. Music is ultimately the bringing together of young people.

They come in and play Tchaikovsky and then rush off and listen to Lily Allen on their iPod.

"There is perhaps an image of it being stuffy and elitist, but that just is not the case.

It is fun trying to play at whatever level in whatever style."

More than 10,000 students a week are given music lessons in schools through the service, with a further 3,500 signed up to tuition at the service's centres outside school hours.

Mr Dunkley said: "With support from Northamptonshire County Council and from our own resources, we do everything we possibly can to support families, from the free loan of instruments to direct financial support for those in need.

"Once a year, we have auditions for county groups.

We will try to take as many people as we can. We have a structure from junior up to county level, so they can work their way through and develop their talent."

The county groups have a local, national and international reputation for excellence and the County Youth Orchestra was recently selected to play at the School Proms at the Royal Albert Hall.

"Eight ensembles received awards at the National Youth Music Festival in the summer. And our concert band has won the National Concert Band Festival for the last 19 years on the trot.

The standard of this group is quite staggering," said Mr Dunkley.

But it is not just youngsters who can benefit from the service as there is a "cradle to the grave" structure.

Babies can take part in the babes in arms and early years music sessions and adult one-to-one tuition is also available.

There is also a regional centre specifically for children with special needs.

In fact, the Music and Performing Arts Service is one of Northamptonshire's best kept secrets.

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