Orchestra wins £20m sponsorship

Salford City Council has announced a £20m sponsorship deal with the prestigious BBC Philharmonic orchestra.

The partnership has been formed as the orchestra prepares to move from its current base at Manchester's Broadcasting House to Salford Quays.

The BBC Philharmonic will move with the rest of the city's BBC staff to its new Salford base, mediacity:uk, by 2011.

In the meantime, it will work with the council, Salford Music Service (MAPAS) and schools on various music projects.

The council said the partnership will create new opportunities for young musicians to develop their skills and career aspirations, and get involved in classical music.