Shortly after he founded the School, Yehudi Menuhin brought together a group of local music lovers to form the first Friends of The Yehudi Menuhin School. These dedicated patrons offered the School and its pupils not only much-needed financial assistance, but also a warm and supportive presence at regular concerts, first in the barn in Slyfield, then later in The Menuhin Hall when Menuhin's dream of building a world-class concert hall for the School's pupils was finally realised.
Last week we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Friends with a champagne reception before the first Showcase of the new season. For 50 years our Friends have watched and applauded over and over each time our pupils have grown from little children into splendid musicians, so this time it was our turn to applaud them. Co-President and alumna Tasmin Little joined us to cut the cake and raise a glass, and Friends Chairman Sir John Baker and Headmaster Ben Gudgeon thanked everyone for their continued support.
Here's to the next 50 years!
