This year’s Lower Clarence Music Eisteddfod takes place at the Maclean civic hall from Saturday June 15 to Saturday June 22.
The organising committee is anticipating an entertaining week of piano, vocal and instrumental sections, with speech and drama sections included, too. “The eisteddfod provides a friendly and supportive environment for performers to showcase their talents,” a spokesperson said.
“Of particular interest is Tuesday June 18, which is ‘Schools Day’, when audiences will enjoy choirs, instrumental groups and verse speaking by students from the local area. The major highlight of the week is the final ‘Celebration Concert’, commencing at 2pm on Saturday June 22.
“The concert features many of the outstanding and winning performances from the week. Tickets are available at the door.”
Members of the public are invited to attend the morning sessions, from 9.30am, and afternoon sessions at 2pm. “The committee encourages people to come along to any of these sessions, as they are not only entertaining but students benefit from performing in front of an audience,” a spokesperson said.
A canteen is open at all sessions for tea, coffee and light refreshments.
This year’s eisteddfod adjudicator, Katie Rutledge, holds a Diploma of Music and Bachelor of Music in Voice and Opera studies from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music and Griffith University. She also has a Graduate Diploma of Music Education from Southern Cross University. Between 2001 and 2019 she worked as a soloist and recording artist with Opera Queensland and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, and has appeared in numerous productions including Marriage of Figaro, Aida, Tosca, Carmen and La Traviata. In 2012 she was appointed Griffith University Choral Lecturer.
“The organising committee appreciates the support of the Clarence Valley Council and the many other sponsors from community organisations and businesses along with the many individual contributors,” a spokesperson said.
The Lower Clarence Music Eisteddfod continues to be a highlight in the valley’s cultural calendar. For further information and programming visit the website: lowerclarencemusiceisteddfod.org.au.