SETTLE Orchestra will open its 2014-2015 season under the baton of Leo Geyer.

After being guest conductor at the orchestra's recent concerts, he has agreed to sign up for the longer term.

A recent graduate of the prestigious joint course at the University of Manchester and the Royal Northern College of Music, Leo is assistant conductor at the Royal Ballet and had his first Radio Three broadcast this summer with London’s Constella Orchestra, of which he is artistic director and conductor.

He is also building a career as a composer and has already won prizes and praise for his work.

For the first concert of the season, Settle Orchestra will play a programme of French music, including much-loved classics such as Ravel’s Pavane and his Tombeau de Couperin.

The programme also includes Bizet’s ever-popular Symphony in C, a work full of energy and memorable tunes.

The orchestra is also continuing its tradition of performing alongside talented soloists who are just starting out in their musical careers.

Mezzo-soprano Rachel Maby, from London, will perform songs by Poulenc and Ravel. Rachel is in her third year on the Manchester Joint Course and has successfully performed a great variety of classical, jazz and contemporary music.

Highlights range from the role of Susanna in Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro to singing jazz with Cleo Laine, John Dankworth, Soweto Kinch and Ronnie Scott.

Performances will take place at Settle College next Saturday, November 22 and Christ Church, Skipton, the following Saturday, November 29.

Both concerts start at 7.30pm and tickets are available on the door, or in advance from Cave and Crag, Settle, High Bentham Post Office and Skipton Camera Centre.