Now in its fourth year, the National Youth Orchestra of Iraq, pictured, has developed enormously, and evolved into a vibrant and dynamic musical force.

Mingling cultures from east and west, their programme varied from new commissions by Iraqi and Scottish composers, to more standard orchestral repertoire. Gordon McPherson's Blood Dance, part of a concerto written for solo oud, a lute-like traditional stringed instrument from the Middle East, was a brilliant example of eastern musical traditions juxtaposed with a modern western orchestra.

Adept oud player Khyam Allami also played one of his own compositions, based on the concept of Maqam, the modal system of middle-eastern music.

Made up of Iraqi musicians between 14 and 29 from various different religious and ethnic backgrounds, and guest players from Edinburgh Youth Orchestra, the orchestra is impeccably secure under the baton of musical director Paul Macalindin.

Ending with Schubert's fourth symphony, the orchestra was truly shining, bringing light and shade to the piece with swelling crescendos from the strings, and crisp, clear tones from the woodwind. The excitement in this piece was almost tangible, and the passion and vigour demonstrated by these young musicians was what made their performance so gripping.

HHH