Edmund Hartzell, a finalist in the Texaco Young Musician of Wales last year, has been awarded a Foundation Scholarship of £3,000 to study at the Royal College of Music in London.

Edmund from Saundersfoot, who plays the double bass, is one of the first bass players to ever receive the prestigious top scholarship.

Edmund hopes to follow in the footsteps of the famous American doublebass virtuso, Gary Karr, who inspired him to play the bass.

Edmund first heard Gary Karr play in a concert when he was only four-years-old.

Edmund said that his main aim at the moment is to obtain a double bass that is good enough for a soloist.

Pembrokeshire County Council has awarded Edward a grant of £1,000, in addition to an award from EMI.

Edmund said: "It's great to get recognition in this way and will help me in my future career, as a solo bass costs over £16,000."

If you would like to hear Edmund play, he will performing at Fishguard on June 17 and will be giving a recital at Rhosygilwen Mansion, Cilgerren, on Friday, July 21, at 7.30 pm.

The programme will include works by Bottesini and Vivaldi and the Welsh composer, John Hardy. Edward will also be performing at St. Mary's Church, Newport, Pembrokeshire, for the Newport Music Society on September 8, before going off to the Royal College in London.