It was the first time that I had taken on duties in the Bowdon Youth Festival and I was nervous that I might forget something vital. However, the organisation was excellent, and there was always someone more experienced on hand to sort out queries.
My role turned out to be a glorified ‘gofer’, which was excellent for a newbie like me. My ‘team’ – adjudicator, secretary and room steward – were brilliant and all very seasoned operators. Not only did they put me at my ease, but they also did the same for the young pianists who were participating.
We listened to a wide variety of music, ranging from classical pieces by Mozart to a jazzy piece called Moody Prawn Blues. These were all executed with amazing aplomb by children, some of whom had never before played a grand piano, taken an exam, or performed before an audience. As our adjudicator said, they just “got on with it” without fuss, and wowed us with their abilities.
It was such a privilege to contribute in a small way to the artistic opportunities of such talented youngsters. I’m looking forward to next year already!
Joanna Williams
Photo : School choirs competing in St Mary’s (Photo: Graham Sinagola)
Photo : Volunteers running the raffle (Photo: Graham Sinagola)