Jeremy and Nathan Iuoras, prize-winners in classical guitar and piano, with pianist Jessica Li and Vincent Law, who came first in the oratorio. At the piano is musician Dobbs Franks.By Danielle Galvin
TALENTED musicians and performers from the south-east were invited to join in an annual arts festival to celebrate the best Melbourne has to offer.
Children from as young as five participated in the South Eastern Arts Festival (SEAF), by competing in the eisteddfod or performing in the non-competitive concerts.
The festival was held in St Margaret’s auditorium, and the friendly atmosphere meant that all performers received constructive, positive feedback.
“These concerts had a particularly friendly atmosphere because the children performed for themselves rather than having the pressure of trying to be better than someone else,” SEAF secretary Angela Patti siad.
The festival ran from 28 April until 22 May, but an encore performance will be held on 1 July at St Margaret’s, starting at 7.30pm. Pianist Nina Ding will entertain the audience with her special gift.
“Her playing is mesmerising. I was announcing the recital section during her performance the other evening. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing, my eyes filled up with the sheer joy of her playing. I couldn’t help but give her the biggest hug as she came off stage.”
With the festival growing each year, Angela says that sponsorships are becoming more important. Angela did not expect the festival to become such a hit, but says there was a definite need for it in the community.
“It’s a lot of work considering we are all just volunteers. But after the Dandenong Youth Festival stopped running, there was nowhere for young musicians to nurture their talent,” she said.
Without the help of sponsors, the SEAF would not be the spectacle it is today. Over 700 young people entered into the festival.
“I’d like to thank St Margaret’s School for the use of their magnificent Rosanove Auditorium. Without their generosity and good-will the festival would not have been possible.”
Angela wants to thank everyone who made the festival happen.
“St John of God Health Care was a big support and the Bernies Schimmel K280 piano really allowed the performers to give it their best.”
The Rotary Club of Berwick donated $2000, as well as a perpetual trophy for the piano concerto in memory of former Rotary president, teacher and arts lover, Fred McCubbin. The vocal performances were a particular treat too, and Angela is busying herself preparing for the concert in July.
“A meeting is going to be held next Sunday afternoon, 5 June starting at 4pm to review the festival and prepare for the concert. It’s always a crowd pleaser as it highlights the outstanding performances throughout the festival,” Angela added.
Anyone interested in coming to the meeting or learning about the festival can ring 0418 357 224, or visit the SEAF website.
