Scholarship concert held at Pearl Beach

The seventh annual Scholarship Competition Concert for students from the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music was held at the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall.

The students, who were in Year 11 and 12 at local colleges and schools, performed a varied program under the direction of Central Coast Conservatorium of Music principal Mr Christopher Bearman.

Pianist Allyne Brislan provided an accompaniment to the young instrumentalists and vocalists.

The Irvine Family Piano Scholarship was awarded to Year 9 student Timothy Guo, who delighted the audience with his rendition of Chopin.

In presenting the award on behalf of his brothers and himself, Mr Jim Irvine said he had never heard the hall's piano played so lovingly and sensitively.

The piano was a gift to Pearl Beach in memory of Alex and Helen Irvine, who were among the earliest Pearl Beach settlers.

Six other young performers competed for two scholarships awarded by the Pearl Beach Progress Association.

Jennifer Hankin was named this year's winner for her talent with the flute.

Adjudicator Mr Andrew Snell commented that her performance of Bach "Hamburger" Sonata in G Major was "brave and near to perfection".

The Highly Commended award was presented to Julia Doukakis playing the viola, who in Mr Snell's words "produced a fantastic sound with a good tone and musical phrasing".

Mr Snell concluded that "the standard was extremely high making it difficult to choose a winner and runner-up".

He pointed out that "performance is more than playing well".

"It is essential to relate to the audience."

Media Release, 20 May 2011 Lynn Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association