Wathen Hall in St Paul's School, Barnes was the venue for a charity concert one recent Sunday afternoon.

Entitled Rio Grand' the name relates to a musical experience by Constant Lambert with words by Sir Sacheverell Sitwell.

The performers were predominantly young people, led by Polly May (mezzo soprano), three very accomplished pianists, John Paul Elkins, Jack Ridley and David Isaacs with three percussionists.

Completing the ensemble was a 34-strong band of John Colet singers - all conducted by Peter Bullett.

The title piece was energetically and skilfully performed. It introduced us to the considerable talents of young Mr Ekins and Polly May. Demonstrating further his virtuosity, John Paul Ekins then played two Chopin Nocturnes and an Etude by Francois Morel.

The programme concluded with a Cole Porter medley containing familiar classic songs including From This Moment On', True Love', Anything Goes', Every Time We Say Goodbye' etc.

With nearly a full house, this concert will benefit Richmond Home-Start, part of a national charity which helps to support pressured families with very young children.

It is voluntary organisation verbally supported by the government. Financially, however, it has to fund itself and needs a minimum of £10,000 to remain viable this year - hence this concert.

Interested in helping? Further information from 08000 686368.

Ivor Jones