YOUNG musicians from Hampshire are preparing to star at the Royal Albert Hall tonight.

Around 800 performers make up the Hampshire Massed Choir, which represents 100 schools and colleges.

Amongst those taking part will be pupils from St Bede CE Primary School, Kings' and the Westgate Schools in Winchester.

They will be performing at the London landmark as part of the Music for Youth Schools Prom 2009.

Hampshire County Council's Music Service has asked composer, Stephen McNeff, to write a piece of music called the Darwin Dilemma for the event. It coincides with the bi-centenary of Charles Darwin's birth.

Carl Clausen, one of Hampshire Music Service's specialist co-ordinators, will conduct the piece.

The Darwin Dilemma is in 12 parts, and is a celebration of nature, the cosmos and the universe.

The performance includes a group of actors, plus dancers and puppeteers who represent the unfolding of the history of life on the planet.

Cllr David Kirk, county council executive member for children's services, said: "It is excellent that members of Hampshire's award winning music service have been given this opportunity to showcase their skills on a national stage.

"I am sure their performance will be a credit to the music service and the people of Hampshire. I look forward to seeing them at the Royal Albert Hall on their big night."