Pupils at Laycock Primary School were among the first school children in the UK to hear a private performance from visiting musicians The Harlem Quartet on Friday 22 January.
The black string quartet's mission is to bring classical and jazz music to young audiences more used to pop, hip hop and rap.
The foursome, who have perfomed a chamber workshop with world-famous conductor Itzhak Perlman and played New York's Carnegie Hall were invited to play as part of Islington Council and Cambridge Education's ethnic achievement and cultural diversity programme to promote orchestral music in schools.
Cllr Ruth Polling, Executive Member for Equalities, Islington Council said:
"The concert was a spin-off from last year's successful Black History Month in Islington which is all about recognising contribution and challenging streotypes.
"The theme of Hidden Histories celebrated the diversity and achievements of Islington's black residents going back over 200 years.
"The visit by the Harlem Quartet offers the chance to listen to some world-class musicians as well as providing inspiration to Islington's pupils - many of whom are taking up music in school."
Over 60 children - many of them learning to play stringed instruments in school - heard a performance of Mozart's String Quartet in C Major. Violinists Ilmar and Melissa, viola player Miguel and cellist Desmond then took questions from the children.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
The Harlem Qaurtet is co-sponsored by arts organisation Sphinx, who have recently opened an office on London's South Bank and offer school children the opportunity to play with world class musicians.
Students from St Mary Magalene Academy and IAMS also enjoyed a concert from the Harlem Quartet later in the day.
Page Last Updated: 23 February 2010