The Shirley Band, from Solihull near Birmingham, recently performed in concert with a new choir for children with additional educational needs, alongside professional singers from Longborough Festival Opera.

Choir and singers

The new 40 strong choir called Anima Voices, was drawn from children from Welcombe Hills School (Stratford-upon-Avon) and Exhall Grange Specialist School (near Coventry), and was supported by professional singers, Maria Jagusz (soprano) and Peter Edge (bass).

The Midsummer Proms concert featured a range of music for band and singers, including 'Zadok the Priest', 'Torreador' and 'Land of Hope and Glory'. Shirley Band's contribution to a wonderful concert saw them showcase repertoire that included 'Salsa Tres' Prado', 'Jurassic Park' and 'Symphonic Highlights' from 'Frozen' under guest conductor Mark Higham.

Great experience

Alan Smith, the choir's founder, who plays soprano cornet with Shirley Band, told 4BR: "The concert was a great experience for the band and for all those who took part.

It was fabulous to have the two world-class professional singers training the choir, and I was delighted to get the band to provide music for the event."