Budding musicians from Aldenham School took part in a concert at the Barbican Centre, the first in a series of musical activities last week.

Some 63 pupils from the preparatory and senior school performed with musicians from the Dame Alice Owen School and schools in Islington.

This was followed by an evening of music at held at the school on May 9 during which 200 guests were entertained to raise money for the school's charity, Ripple Africa. The programme included opera solos and duets, instrumental soloists and a rendition of Rhythm of Life sung by the school choir.

A champagne reception in the interval was followed by an auction to raise funds to enable a group of 16 students and teachers from Aldenham to travel to Malawi in the summer holidays, where they will use their skills and enthusiasm to provide hands-on support for the charity. It is expected that the evening will have raised about £10,000. Last year the school raised £9,000 for Ripple Africa which enabled the building of a new classroom block.

The week was rounded off with a violin recital by Japanese soloist, Narimichi Kawabata, who will be appearing at the Wigmore Hall on Thursday 14th May. Organised by one of the parents at All violin students at the school took part in a Master Class given by Mr Kawabata before the recital to an invited audience.

Headteacher James Fowler said: “Music is a strong element of school life at Aldenham and the recent busy and diverse programme has been thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who participated. Our Director of Music, Mr John Wyatt, expects the highest standards from our students and this week’s events have perfectly showcased the results of his efforts.”