A singer from Otley will be supporting the next generation of music makers through his new album 'Songscape', which celebrates a thousand years of song from Britain and Ireland.

Brin Best, who is better known to readers of The Wharfedale Observer, Ilkley Gazette and Craven Herald through his work in education and his many nature articles over the last two decades, will be donating £1 from every copy of the album sold, plus contributions from concert performances, to the leading UK music charity 'Youth Music'.

Brin has been a singer in choirs and stage productions since childhood, including many years as a bass for Otley and Ilkley Choral Societies, and Yorkshire Dales Opera. This album is Brin's first solo recording project and features studio recordings of 25 of his favourite songs.

Speaking about the album, which is now available on CD and all major streaming sites, Brin said: "My album 'Songscape' has given me the chance to record many of my favourite songs from the last millennium, and encompasses a wide range of musical styles - from medieval music, through folk and opera to pop.

"Having worked in education for much of my life, as a teacher in the Yorkshire Dales and an education adviser based in Otley, I have seen the positive impact that music can have on the lives of children and young people.

"My donation to the charity Youth Music, from album sales and concert performances, will help to create new music-making opportunities in Yorkshire and beyond.

"I hope you will enjoy the songs I perform on the album and discover something new, that you can add to your own songscape."

The CD comes with a 72-page, full colour booklet of historical notes, photographs and autobiographical information, explaining the reasons why each song was included on the album.

You can buy copies of the CD, or digital downloads, from www.brinbest.bandcamp.com.

It is also available via Spotify, Deezer and other major music streaming sites.