HOWARD Dyer from Sale has just completed a 26 day music marathon.

Starting on April 26, he played a different classical piece on YouTube, either on the flute or piano and, on some magical occasions, a combination of the two, every day for 26 days.

The number 26 was recommended by the organisers of the cancelled London Marathon, who urged people arranging fundraisers to reflect how many miles are usually run.

The 65-year-old called his fundraising attempt Howard’s 26 Piece Challenge. He performed Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schuman, Chopin and Ravel. His only non-classical theme was the accompaniment to On Golden Pond.

Debbie, his partner, who he met when they both taught in Surrey, returned to Manchester in 2005. In 2019 she started to study for a Master’s degree at the Royal Northern College of Music to train as a music therapist with Nordoff-Robins. Howard joined her in 2017.

He said: “She inspired me to raise money for this small charity, which was started by Paul Nordoff and Clive Robbins. Among other things, they deliver music therapy by trained practitioners to help autistic children to communicate, reduce anxiety in people with dementia and comfort people with a terminal illness.”

Howard, a music tutor and examiner, enlisted Debbie to do the camera work and his

His sons James and Charles married his piano and flute performances to create an ensemble effect.

His neighbours enjoyed the music each night after Debbie sent the link to the Grange Road Whatsapp group. Last Thursday, the 26th day, he went out at 4pm and was congratulated by them..

To hear his performances, visit YouTube and type Howard Dyer or 26 Piece Challenge. His Just Giving page is open until August 3. The link is justgiving.com/fundraising/howard-s-26-piece-challenge