YOUNG musicians serenaded officials from a leading charity while they ate when they visited a County Durham school.

Representatives from Cancer Research UK were at Durham School to collect £1,000 raised on a recent musical evening.

A school spokesman said: "Music For A Summer's Evening is always one of the highlights of the busy music calendar at Durham School and this year's event lived up to its high reputation.

"Half concert and half cabaret with meal included, the event provided guests with the opportunity to enjoy the school's highly talented young musicians in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere and all in aid of charity Cancer Research."

About 180 guests attended the concert, which included Stravinsky's Danse Russe by pupil Miriam Davis, co-leader of the National Youth Orchestra.

Music For A Summer's Evening is not the only musical fundraiser organised at the school. A 24-hour sponsored concert will start at 9pm on June 27.

Performances will take place in a variety of venues around the school, culminating in the more formal Chadeyron instrumental music competition in the music studio at 7.30pm.

The ten best musicians in the school will be performing to win the prestigious Durham School Musician of the Year award.

Everyone is welcome to attend to listen to part of the 24-hour concert and a programme will be available from the music school.

All proceeds go towards the cost of a multi-purpose artificial sports surface. It is expected to be ready by November and will be used by both Durham and Bow schools and the local community.

Published: 12/06/2004