SINGING sensation Laura Wright was back in her home county yesterday pursuing her other passion.

Will Clarke

SINGING sensation Laura Wright was back in her home county yesterday pursuing her other passion.

The All Angels star, from Framlingham, took time out of preparations for the classical group's third album, to spend time coaching a new generation of singers.

She spent the day at Great Whelnetham Primary School near Bury St Edmunds, helping youngsters during a vocal workshop, performing with them on stage and finally treating them to a spellbinding mini concert of her own.

The 18-year-old said helping young singers find their feet was a big part of the band's life.

In the past, the foursome has used paintings in the National Gallery in London to help children discover inspiration but this was the first time the A-level student star has spent time introducing the world of classical music to youngsters.

She said: “One of our aims as a group is to spread knowledge and enjoyment of classical music - not just among older people but also among a younger generation.

“I think personally that to spread knowledge and information is very important but it is also important that it is fun, that they enjoy it as well as sing properly.

“It is very important you warm up before you start singing - ideally you want children to be learning something without them realising it. Performing is the best part of what we do but I love teaching and if I wasn't performing I would be a teacher.”

Headteacher Chris Lawson, who invited Laura for the day, said the whole school had been incredibly excited at the prospect of the All Angels star visiting.

She said: “I don't know who is more excited the pupils or me. I have been here since September and I have been focused on developing creative arts in the school.

“Musically, we have a choir and a recorder club as well as visiting artists and story tellers. It is really great to have someone so young, talented and successful come here and inspire the children because this way they will listen to music they otherwise wouldn't naturally listen to.”

In the morning Laura spent time with children showing them how to look after their voices - introducing them to games involving blowing through straws into glasses of water and stressing the importance of a good diet.

In the afternoon the whole school came together to hear her perform Make me a Channel for your Peace as well as accompanying her in other choral favourites.