A PRESTIGIOUS school of music is set to close after principal Sylvia Ingman, who has taught piano at the school for 54 years, decided it was time to 'take a rest'.

The 60-year-old Bucks School of Music in Harlow Road, High Wycombe, will be filled with musicians of all ages who trained at the school for a party in celebration of its lifetime achievement on Sunday, July 15.

Frederick Bailey started the School of Music, originally based in the High Street, High Wycombe, in 1942 when he opened its doors to promising young musicians from all over the country.

It was under his guidance that the young Sylvia Ingman began learning piano at the age of 12. She excelled at her art and began her teaching career there as a 15-year-old student.

By the age of 18 she was performing and broadcasting quite extensively and had gained the LRAM and ARCM diplomas.

Mrs Ingman, of Trinity Road, Hazlemere, said: "After a few years of performing I decided teaching was the most important work so I concentrated solely on this aspect of music."

In 1976 Mrs Ingman took over from former principal 80-year-old Mr Bailey on his retirement.

Many gifted musicians who studied at the school have gone on to reach the top of their field.

Mrs Inman said: "After so many years I will certainly miss teaching at the school. The secretary Rosemary May and most of the teachers have all been on the staff for over 30 years, first as pupils and then as teachers, so it has been like a family.