AN EX-CON, performing artists and a group of youth workers will combine to help youth offenders turn negative experiences into positive tunes.

North Ely Community Centre, Pethybridge Road, Ely will host 30 young offenders over a six-week period in their music studio and will work to produce individual songs and a group album.

Communities Education Officer Chris Gauci, 41, said: “What I would like to do is create an album and a website for young talent and then we can get it out there.”

The lucky 30 will be treated to two hours of classes a week, including lyric writing classes and performance practice. Working artists, such as Michael Williams – whose daughter is in Cardiff dance group Jukebox Juniors, finalists in Sky’s national competition Got to Dance – will help and guide the youngsters during the programme.