THOUSANDS of school pupils from across the borough were in fine voice for one of the highlights of the year at the Royal Albert Hall yesterday (Wednesday March 17).

Children from dozens of primary and secondary schools took over the venue in Kensington for the Redbridge Schools' Choral Festival.

Alongside several choirs, musicians of all ages performed a varied programme of famous pieces and original repertoire composed by the centre's teachers.

Eric Forder, director of Redbridge Music Centre, said: “The whole evening went extremely well. I was very proud of all the children, they all did really, really.

“The rehearsal on the day ran to the minute, so that was fantastic. The whole event was a real tribute to Redbridge.

“I'm also extremely proud that we have so many talented staff who compose and arrange pieces, such as Chris Wilcox, Rebecca Kantor and Malcolm Ball.

“This year we're going to make a DVD available of the performance for the first time, which will be available shortly.”

Redbridge Music Service, which is based in Fencepiece Road in Ilford, has been running the festival at the Royal Albert Hall every two years since 1976, and Mr Forder – who has been involved with the last seven – said the event had gone from strength to strength.

Mr Forder said: “Redbridge was actually one of the first local authorities to organise a concert like this in the Royal Albert Hall, and we're one of only a few who do it regularly, as there's not really a venue big enough in the borough.

For more information on the Redbridge Music Service call 020 8501 3944 or visit www.redbridgemusic.org.uk.