A MANCHESTER University music graduate has created a website which gives young musicians a chance to perform at functions.

Director and viola player, Robin Weil, aged 23, said: “As a member of a string quartet at university, I wanted to make some extra cash by advertising my own group for weddings and other events.

“It quickly turned into a business advertising and supporting students and young musicians to find paid work.”

Since founding Music Students for Hire (www.musicstudentsforhire.co.uk) a year ago, Robin has arranged more than 300 bookings nationwide, including 25 from Trafford, and it has become a full-time job.

He said: “We have had great feedback from our clients who have looked after our musicians well.

“We provide anything from classical to jazz and Latin to pop. Students often play background music as well as music for concerts and shows.”

He has even arranged for musicians from the Royal Northern College of Music and Manchester University to appear at The Bridgewater Hall and the Lowry.

The highlight for Robin was when MSH reached the regional finals of the Lloyds TSB Graduate Enterprise competition in Manchester in February 2012.

Mark Kuhillow from Park Road, Hale, booked a violinist to perform at his mother, Marcelle’s 60th birthday party.

He said: “It was terrific. The violinist, Alex Abrudan, stood in the hallway of our house greeting people as they arrived. She played all sorts of stuff and put together her own compositions.

“I would certainly use the service again.”

To book an event or become a performer, telephone 0208 693 3373 or e-mail msh.events@gmail.com.