A young conductor from Wrexham is following in the footsteps of his hero, by landing a new role.

Robert Guy, 36, has been appointed as conductor of the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, taking up the reins of his musical idol, Sir Simon Rattle, the legendary classical maestro.

Mr Guy's overcame childhood deafness thanks to operations to widen his ear canals, and by the age 15 he could hear fully.

Mr Guy will take over the baton at the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in September.

The members are provided opportunities to perform with world-class soloists and conductors at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

They are also set to play alongside the senior Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in a concert in November.

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In preparation, they will participate in workshops to enhance their musical prowess.

Before embarking on this new journey, Mr Guy carved his early professional figure as a viola player with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

Until recently he worked at the University of Manchester as the Director of Ensembles and spearheaded their highly acclaimed Conducting Programme.

Mt Guy has said: "It is a great honour to have been appointed Principal Conductor to the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.

"I was invited to work with the orchestra earlier this year, when I prepared them for a special reunion concert conducted by Sir Simon Rattle, and later my own concert at the Philharmonic Hall.

"Sir Simon is a giant of classical music and one of my all-time musical heroes so this really is my dream job.

"I hope this can act as a springboard working towards the orchestra's 75th Birthday in 2026.

“The orchestra has a special history and I am proud to be a part of it, working alongside a great team.

"I am passionate about making classical music accessible to everyone and I would encourage all young people in Liverpool and the North West to sign up for an audition and be part of something very special for young people in the heart of Liverpool."

Liverpool Philharmonic's chief executive, Michael Eakin OBE, expressed his excitement over My Guy joining.

He said: "We are delighted that Robert will be joining Liverpool Philharmonic.

"His passion for music and many years’ experience as a conductor and musician will bring a fresh energy to our Youth Orchestra and help to inspire these incredibly talented young musicians.

"The city’s young people are a central focus of our work.

"We provide regular musical training to 2,000 young people through Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company and In Harmony and are delighted to welcome the next generation of talented musicians into our Youth Company this year."