Young musicians receive Conservatorium awards

Aaron Carey and Kimberley Gilbert were the recipients of the 2018 Central Coast Conservatorium Showcase awards hosted by the Pearl Beach Progress Association.

"Large audiences filled the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall over the weekend of May 26 and 27 to hear performances by accomplished young musicians," said Association publicity officer Ms Lynne Lillico.

The Junior Showcase Concert was held on May 6.

Now in its sixth year, performers were accompanied by repetiteur, accompanist and recital pianist, Ms Gerard Nicholls.

Central Coast Conservatorium artistic director Mr Patrick Brennan said: "Although competition is a common aspect of the musical education process, too often the focus is on competing rather than performing.

"Nine young students were selected for the Junior Showcase, offering them the opportunity to perform in front of an audience and play from their hearts expressing themselves musically, which is what music is all about."

On May 7, eight students competed for the 13th annual Pearl Beach Music Scholarship of $1000 in the Senior Showcase.

Senior students who participated in the Scholarship Concert included; Luke Stenbeck (violin), Jordan Gilbert (voice), Chris Chen (piano), Ella Sandeman (voice), Charlotte Donald (cello), Jessica Carter (voice), and Suzie Kim (viola).

"Outstanding pianist, Lilli Naulu, provided an interpretive accompaniment to the students contributing greatly to their individual performances," Ms Lillico said.

Adjudicator for the afternoon, Mr Steven Stanke, has taught music at all levels in Australia and the United States and has performed in numerous orchestras and bands including the Royal Australia Airforce and Navy Bands.

"All of the students presented amazing performances, making it very difficult to make a choice," Mr Stanke said.

"It is very important to relate to the audience and perform with emotion and acknowledge their appreciation of your performance," he added.

Aaron Carey was the 2018 scholarship recipient.

He performed Overture by Australian compose, Philip Johnson, and the Angry Young Man arrangement by Billy Joel.

Aaron Carey was also the recipient of the People's Choice Award, valued at $250.

"Aaron has developed into a competent young pianist and performer," Mr Stanke said.

The annual Irvine Piano Scholarship of $800, sponsored by the Irvine damily in memory of their parents, was presented to Jordan Gilbert, who has been studying piano from age six. SOURCE: Media release, 5 Jun 2018 Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association