While most of us were busy getting ready for Christmas, one young man was working hard for the Amber Trust. Eton College teenager Thomas Dan Li – known as Dan – raised more than £2,200 for the charity through organising a Christmas concert at Morley College, Westminster on December 21.
Pupils from Westminster School, St Paul’s School, North London Collegiate School and Wycombe Abbey School performed works by, among others, Chopin and Debussy. It was Dan’s first attempt at fundraising and he says he wants to do even more.
“The concert went extremely well despite the uncertainties that came with Covid,” said Dan. “The quality of music was extremely high throughout.
“I’m sure everyone involved was proud to play music in such an environment during a time when such things are so tricky. While the concert is now finished, I am keen to continue my support for the Amber Trust in any future endeavours.”
Daisy Noton, of the Royal Academy of music, opened and closed the 15-piece programme with interpretations of ‘The Birds’ by Polo Piatti and Philippe Gaubert’s ‘Fantaisie’, respectively. While Dan himself performed Mozart’s String Duo No. 1 in G Major for violin and viola alongside his first violin teacher Yohei Nakijima.
Violinist Amber Sun’s version of Introduction et rondo capriccioso, Op.28 by Camille Saint-Saens proved a highlight. So too was Royal College of Music student Nick Zhou’s recital of Ballade No.1 in G Minor by Chopin.
A trio of carols closed the show to lend a festive touch to proceedings.
“Thank you to all the performers who took part for their time, beautiful playing and generosity. You have made a real difference to our beneficiaries,” commented Amber Trust CEO Angela Voyajolu.
You can continue to support Dan’s fundrasing efforts at his Christmas concert page Fundraiser by Thomas Dan Li : AMM_DanLi (gofundme.com).
For more information on how to fundraise for the Amber Trust visit Get involved in fundraising – Amber Trust.