The world premiere of percussion pieces written by musicians as young as 15 will echo around Rhos-y-Gilwen on Saturday.

Internationally-known percussionists O Duo will be at the splendid venue to showcase the talent of the nine finalists in the annual Young Composer of Dyfed competition.

The nine — including 17-year-old Steffan Ciccotti from Kilgetty, who recently came third in the Texaco Young Musician of Wales, competition and Sara Howell, also 17, from Dinas Cross — will be treated to a masterclass by the dynamic O Duo.

O Duo’s Owen Gunnell and Oliver Cox, perform with ‘style and panache’, says the Daily Telegraph, which nominated their first album as its CD of the Week in 2007. They have also won the best music act of the fringe at the Edinburgh Festival.

The pair will also hold a masterclass for percussion groups from Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion tomorrow (Thursday).

Alongside marimba, vibraphone and full drum kit, the young composer finalists have brought in a variety of percussion instruments to enhance their work, including cymbals, maracas, dejembe drum, gong, singing bowl and even a train whistle.

The competition final, which is open to the public, starts at 7.30pm.

Dr Antony Griew, secretary to the Young Composer of Dyfed trustees said: “The evening promises to be full of artistry, originality and sheer exuberance as O Duo presents this array of exciting new works, culminating in one of the young finalists being named Young Composer of Dyfed 2009.”

The adjudicator will be Dr Lyn Davies, composer and head of vocal studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

Tickets for the final are available for £5 on the door, or free to those in full-time education, and teachers bringing school groups.

The Young Composer of Dyfed competition has been supported by the Arts Council of Wales, Carmarthenshire County Council, Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and PRS Foundation for New Music.

The competition is part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of The Young Musician of Dyfed, which has highlighted talented teenage musicians from the three counties. Many have gone on to establish successful musical careers, including current Royal harpist, Claire Jones from Crymych, and her predecessor Catrin Finch.

One of the earlier winners, in 1992, was Iestyn Evans, who will be giving an organ recital at St Mary’s Church, Cardigan at 7.30pm.

A further concert with recent winners is planned for September, and in November, celebrations culminate with a special 20th competition at Stradey Castle, Llanelli, at the invitation of keen musician and patron of the Dyfed Young Musician organisation Sir David Mansel Lewis.

For more information, visit www.ymod.org.uk