Emma Pritchard

The Clarence Valley Orchestra will perform a special concert entitled Symphony for Relief on April 23 to raise funds in support of local communities throughout the region who have been adversely affected by the recent floods.

Featuring a stellar variety of instrumental favourites including the music of Cole Porter, Peter Allen and Glenn Miller, the concert will also include a medley from The Sound of Music as well as The Duke of Clarence, a unique piece composed by conductor Greg Butcher.

Consisting of over 70 talented volunteer musicians, the Clarence Valley Orchestra has previously raised funds for several local charities including the Grafton Salvation Army, Clarence Valley RSL sub-Branches, and Grafton Legacy.

Cellist Helen Tucker has been a member of the Clarence Valley Orchestra since its formation in 2014.

She is encouraging the community to support the concert and help raise funds for locals in need.

“It’s so rewarding to play alongside musicians of all ages, at different stages in their musical journey,” she said. 

“Being volunteers, we love to simply make music together and entertain our audience whilst fundraising.

“This concert has a personal feel too as over a dozen orchestra members were affected by the floods, some quite severely.”

Symphony for Relief will be held in The Barn at the Grafton Showground on April 23 and will commence at midday with a delicious sit-down lunch courtesy of Vine’s at 139 followed by the performance at 2pm.

Tickets cost $82 and can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com.au

Tickets will not be available for purchase on arrival.

Proceeds from the concert will be donated to the Clarence Valley Rotary District 9640 Flood Relief Appeal.