Cellist plays to capacity crowd

Capacity crowds packed the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall over the June long weekend for a musical program including a concert by David Pereira.

Central Coast Conservatorium cello student Sebastien Hibbard, a participant in the previous week's Pearl Beach Showcase concert, said it was an exciting experience as he and his parents were among the audience for the Sunday afternoon David Pereira concert.

"David Pereira is regarded as one of Australia's finest cellists," said Pearl Beach Progress Association publicity officer Ms Lynne Lillico.

From 1980 to 1987 David was principal cellist with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

He was also founding cellist of the Australia Ensemble and, from 1990 until recent times, he was senior lecturer at the Australian National University where he now teaches part-time.

"Across his career David Pereira has commissioned, performed and recorded more cello music than perhaps any other Australian cellist," said Ms Lillico.

"For ten-year-old Sebastien Hibbard, it was a thrilling moment as the previous day he had a very special meeting with David who confirmed that he would be delighted to tutor Sebastien on a monthly basis.

"Sebastien is an outstanding young musician who was recently awarded the Central Coast Conservatorium's encouragement scholarship for 2013.

"He has also been awarded a scholarship to the Central Coast Grammar School from 2014 to 2019.

"The Association is delighted to announce that he will perform at the Pearl Beach August Glee Club Variety concerts," said Ms Lillico.

Email, 17 Jun 2013

Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association

Photo: Bev Lapacek