Melodious schoolchildren got their big break after landing starring roles in a colourful music video with a powerful message.

Nearly 60 youngsters surrounded by hundreds of bright red balloons took over Midi Music Company in Deptford on April 1 to film Afrodizzie’s new video Solid.

During the high-energy film children gather around each band member mimicking their actions and rhythm until finally they take over playing every instrument.

Like the band itself – which boasts 16 members - the video is a collaborative community project.

Pablo Paracchino, producer and drummer, said: “The song itself was inspired by the 2011 uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia, and subsequently in Syria.

“The concept behind the song is people all over the world do have the power to implement radical change and although that change may be slow at first our children are the ones to benefit and ensure the change lasts.

“To that end the video included 59 children and hundreds of red balloons.

“The aim was to make a light hearted, party video that would also serve as an inspirational/educational tool.

“The red balloons represent the lives lost in any struggle against brutal dictators anywhere in the world and the 50 plus kids are the future.”

Pablo, who teaches percussion in south-east London schools, has just become the director of Child and Sound.

The charity provides live music workshops and activities for children and adults primarily with special needs and disabilities.

The 34-year-old added: “The kids had a great time.

“It was brilliant – hard work but worth it.

“We thought having the children in the video would give out a strong message.”

Afrodizzie is a group of friends that share a passion for music from the “dark continent” who began playing together in 2008.

This video for their track Solid was produced and created in collaboration with Child and Sound, Think Big community theatre project and Midi Music Company.

Profits from the sale of the single will go to community groups and charities.