USING the sound of music a budding youth charity captured the attention and raised the spirits of Haringey's young people during half-term.

Soundscape London enticed a group of Haringey pupils aged between 14 and 19 to Northumberland Park Community School with three days of free music, dance and film workshops.

Enthusiastic young people were given a rare opportunity to sample beatboxing, breakdancing, street jazz dance and African and Brazilian percussion.

Gospel singing workshops were also offered as was a rare chance to try their hand at Capoeira — Brazilian Martial Arts.

The workshops culminated in a showcase for the pupils friends and family.

Project director and Hornsey resident, Vicki Hart-Dale said: "Our charity is all about helping young people to develop a sense of self-confidence by offering an opportunity to express themselves creatively that they may have otherwise not have had.

"I was brought up in care but was fortunate to have a role model who encouraged me to get an education but not every young person is as lucky".

Though the charity is still growing, Miss Hart-Dale said there were big plans ahead.

Soundscape London is currently working on developing a educational programme for young people excluded from mainstream education.

And in 2010 there is a project that will see a handful of older teenagers getting a once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit Brazil.

For more information about the charity, or to get involved, email vickihartdale@soundscapelondon.co.uk or search for Soundscape London on Facebook.