Playing the violin in Whitehall

This is Lily Schlaen of Orquesta Sin Fronteras, playing opposite the entrance to Downing Street yesterday afternoon, in aid of Kashmiri human rights groups.

Lily is a force of nature and her new orchestra, based in Teddington and including musicians from every nation and range of abilities - including disabilities - is an inspiration.  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Orquesta-Sin-Fronteras/114135311943534

She is also my violin teacher.

It was fascinating watching the concert yesterday, with all the political apparachiks dashing by without ties (the civil servants in Victoria Street all have ties).  Most people are too busy to listen, but somehow bringing culture into the traffic and rush is always civilising.