Proms concert helps PCYC

The inaugural Pearl Beach Proms Concert raised more than $2000 for Umina PCYC to assist with its ongoing work with young people.

Pearl Beach Progress Association communications officer Ms Lynne Lillico said the night was an "outstanding success" with a sell-out audience.

"A capacity audience filled the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall on September 20, enjoying a night of fun-filled music, with stirring audience participation," Ms Lillico said.

"Organised by Margaret and John Walklate, the evening concert was a fundraising event for the Umina Branch of the PCYC support group.

"We raised over $2000, which will help with the Umina PCYC's ongoing work to assist young people on the Central Coast who are at risk.

"Margaret Walklate said she was overwhelmed by the support and generosity of the local community."

Dr John Irvine officiated the evening as Master of Ceremonies, while director of band programs at Northholm School Mr Philip Rees was musical director.

"Philip, as musical director, led the audience in rousing renditions of well known traditional and Australiana songs, as well as showcasing his own virtuosity on the piano," Ms Lillico said.

"The evening of song and fun was further enhanced with duet performances by two Year 8 students from Kincumber High School performing The Hobbits' Lord of the Rings with emotional flair.

"Flautist Elissa Copper performed a solo piece, Dance of the Blessed Spirits, by Gluk and Naomi Jones, a spirited violin rendition of Gypsy Bess Arabian Girl.

"The Peninsula Choir, led by choir director Ivan Kinny, inspired the audience in spirited singing with flair and humour reminiscence of the London Proms.

"Choir members Alan Edwards and Andrew Birt performed with gusto The Gendarmes Duet by Offenbach.

"Streamers filled the air as amoving rendition of the traditional Land of Hope and Glory climaxed a wonderful evening."

Press release, 25 Sep 2008 Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association