Prince Harry and DJ unite to put together band for palace concert

Prince Harry is teaming up with drum'n'bass star Goldie to stage a gig at Buckingham Palace, it was announced yesterday. The DJ and producer is hosting a new TV talent search to find raw musical recruits for a BBC2 series.

And the hunt will culminate with a grand finale show at the palace, with Prince Harry among the guests of honour.

Goldie, who has also carved out an acting career with EastEnders and Bond movie roles, was a finalist in BBC2's Maestro series, in which he took on the challenge of learning to become a conductor.

Now he will be using his talents to find young wannabes for the show Goldie's Band: By Royal Appointment.

Goldie and Prince Harry have already met to discuss the concert which the specially chosen group will be performing at the palace.

The series will see 12 young musicians - aged 17 to 24 - chosen through a nationwide search, then mentored by a team of industry experts.

They include Robbie Williams collaborator and composer Guy Chambers, Mercury-nominated jazz artist Soweto Kinch and former Catatonia star and BBC 6 Music presenter Cerys Matthews.

Goldie said: "This is one of the most inspiring projects I've ever been involved with.

"It's all about unearthing musical talent that's under the radar in Britain - finding young people who've faced huge challenges and have never had the opportunities that they deserve."