Talented youngsters in the spotlight at musical festival

As it entered its second week, the festival, which runs February 23-March 18, saw young violinists, singers, and dancers vying for first places in their chosen categories.

Chairman of The Hastings Musical Festival, Molly Townson says with the high standard of performers the adjudicators have some tough decisions to make. “On Monday March 6 the newly introduced Junior Instrumental Concerto Competition was won by young violinist Amber Emson. Amber was presented with a Prize Cheque, and the opportunity to perform as solo violinist with the Sussex Concert Orchestra, conducted by Kenneth Roberts.

“Maya Godlonton-Whyte excelled in both Singing and Dancing, winning the Bronze Medal for Girls Singing with 87 marks, and the Gertrude Rossa Shield and 88 marks for her Italian aria in the Foreign Language Song, followed by First Places with 88 in Lyrical Dance and 87 in National Dance.”

The Festival’s nine days of Dancing began later that day with Duets and Mini-Groups.

Class 1236 Classical Trios and Quartets was won by Beth Todd, Amy Robinson, Jessica Sutton and Sarah Freeman with 88 marks.

Class 1166 Song and Dance Duet was won by Ruby Edwards and Maisie Edwards with 88 marks.

Class 1199 Tap Duet was won by Jessica Sutton and Millie-Rose White with 88 marks

Molly says the Tuesday March 7 Session showed a high standard of Woodwind performance, ending with The Horace Funnell Cup being awarded to Adel and Karina Wilson with 88 marks for their performance of ‘Angel of Music’ for Voice and Harp.

Molly added: “With over a week still to go further events to look out for include School and Adult Choirs (Friday March 10), FolkFest on Saturday March 11 at 2pm. A whole weekend of Dancing (March 11-12). Primary Schools Music Making during the morning of Wednesday March 15 with the Singing and Instrumental Championships in the evening.

“Show Songs and Pop Vocals are on Tuesday March 14 and Thursday March 16.

“Musical Theatre is also on March 16 during the evening.

“Jazzfest and Rockfest are on Friday March 17.

“Book your seats for the ever popular festival finale on Saturday March 18 at 7pm.

“It is an opportunity to see the Best of the Festival, and to support our young performers.”

Tickets £5 (£4 concessions) Under 10’s free. Available from the Whiterock theatre box office (01424) 462288 or visit: https://whiterocktheatre.org.uk