Some times you hear about an initiative that sounds good on paper, but it isn't until you see it in action that you recognise its brilliance. That is the case with the Wingecarribee Vocal Muster, the brainchild of world-class opera performer Richard Lane.
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The Southern Highlands News has been sharing details of the initiative since it began about 18 months ago. We were keen to let people know about the program, led by a champion in the performance industry, that provided mentoring and opportunities for young people to hone and showcase their vocal talents.
Quite simply we love to share a good community story and the Vocal Muster has all the ingredients of just that.
I was fortunate to be invited to the Vocal Muster grand final on October 20 at Peppers Craigieburn. That's when I realised the true value of this wonderful concept.
The grand final was the culmination of 18 months, involving 50 young people, mentored by Richard and honing their performance skills through a series of shows, heats and finals.
Eight of these young people secured a place on the grand final program - all with their own unique sounds. Some contemporary others jazz, operatic and even a little bit country - but all had a wow factor.
It quickly became apparent that the judges, Nicholas Hammond (who can be seen in "Once upon a time in Hollywood" and many other outstanding films) and Glenn Amer had their work cut out for them. It also became clear that these young people were not only blessed with beautiful voices, they were blessed with great opportunities through the Vocal Muster. They have an expert mentor in Richard, amazing platforms to showcase their talents and exposure to entertainment leaders in the form of top class judges.
It was also clear they have the support of a community. The Vocal Muster has several key sponsors and has secured government funding for the purchase of equipment, as well as a solid following of people who ensure a packed audience at all events. There were about 200 people in attendance at the grand final including the new Vocal Muster patron, Nicholas Hammond.
As with every good competition there has to be winners, but there are certainly no losers in this growing band of young Highlands talent. The winners of the first Vocal Muster grand final were:
First - Javiera Diaz of Moss Vale High School
Second - Amelia-Jane Lester from Chevalier College
Third - Abbey Johnson from Chevalier College
The John Ross Encouragement Award went to Cassidy Brown from Moss Vale High School, while the Carol Lane Encouragement Award was taken out by Ashleigh Gallagher of Bowral High School.
Vocal Muster is now gearing up for a series of events throughout the Highlands including performing carols at the Lighting of the Christmas Tree in Bowral, the Christmas muster in Werai and Christmas events at the Bundanoon Club, Robertson Bowling Club and Highlands Golf Club. You can also see the Vocal muster on Australia Day at Berrima. Meanwhile several members of the Vocal Muster will support Adam Harvey on November 9 at the Robertson Bowling Club.
Any student interested in joining the Vocal Muster can do so through the Wingecarribee Vocal Muster facebook page.
