Solomon Baldock (14) and Harry Smith (15) have been selected to play in the 48-strong New Zealand Secondary Schools Brass Band, along with Invercargill pupils William Swan, Shaun Chalmers, Horace Zhang, Josiah Brown, Dryw McArthur (James Hargest College) and Jade Hartford (Southland Girls' High School).
Solomon, a cornet player for the Mosgiel RSA Band, was selected as the NZSS Brass Band's repiano player - a prominent role involving solo work in the ensemble, despite it only being the second time he had been selected for the band.
''It's a soloist seat, so there will be plenty of solo spots on stage.
''I was really pleased, considering I played third cornet last year.
''I was surprised how far up the ranks I've moved.''
For Harry, a St Kilda Brass euphonium player, it was the third time he had been selected as a member, and he was looking forward to performing with the band again.
''It's an opportunity to play at a much higher level than I normally get to do in Dunedin.''
The duo will rehearse with the band for several days early next month, before performing in concerts in Rotorua and Matamata.
