Angelic voices sung out in Norwich last night as the sounds of Mozart, Handel and Snow Patrol echoed around St Andrew's Hall.

Choirs from 11 schools in Norfolk joined together to perform the mixed programme of songs for Norfolk High Schools' ninth annual choir festival.

More than 300 parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters sat in admiration as the 400 children performed a set that included Snow Patrol songs Run and Chasing Cars, alongside Handel's And the Glory of the Lord and Mozart's Ave Verum, before concluding with a medley from Les Miserables.

Organiser David O'Neale, of Norfolk Music Service, said the choir had joined together in the afternoon ahead of the evening performance.

Mr O'Neale said: 'We have had a wonderful day since 1pm rehearsing all the vocal music for tonight. Eleven high schools brought choirs here. They have been rehearsing at their own schools and have all come together on the night.'

Conducting the children was Richard Allain, the director of music at Norwich School.

Mr O'Neale said: 'He has arranged and composed music for lots of choirs and performed at the Proms. We are grateful and privileged to have him here.'

The choir was also joined by the service flagship group the Norfolk Symphonic Wind Band, who performed a number of tunes including Raiders of the Lost Ark, by John Williams, under the conduction of David Stowell.

Mr Stowell has previously worked with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Among the schools to contribute performers to the evening were City of Norwich School, Hellesdon High School, Thorpe St Andrew High School and Wymondham High School.

Is your school putting on a public performance? Contact reporter Richard Wood on 01603 772423 or email richard.wood@archant.co.uk