A MUSICAL trail blazer from Ulverston has landed the opportunity of a lifetime after signing a professional record deal.

Good things come in threes for 19-year-old saxophonist, Jess Gillam.

Earlier this year it was announced she would play the last night of The Proms in September and was one of the star acts at the Classic BRIT Awards.

Capping off an already phenomenal 2018, Miss Gillam has now been signed to Decca Classics as its first saxophone player.

She said: "I’m so excited to become the first saxophonist ever to join Decca Classics. The saxophone is such a dynamic, versatile and expressive instrument and I cannot wait to record some of my favourite music and share my passion for music and saxophone with as many people as possible."

Miss Gillam's talent was shared with the world when she was just 17, after winning the BBC Young Musician of the Year Award, in 2016.

She has since gone on to play internationally, as well as on some of the most impressive stages in the UK. Last year she performed at the Royal Albert Hall, playing as part of the John Williams Prom.

Rebecca Allen, president of Decca Records, said: "Jess is spearheading a new generation of young female artists whose captivating personality and compelling musicianship offer a bright future to classical music."

Even though her star continues to rise, Miss Gillam also focuses on promoting other young musicians, and harnessing their talent, serving as a patron for Awards for Young Musicians.