Talent in Tenterfield

Celebrating the songman Peter Allen, Tenterfield’s Wintersong Carnival kicked off a week of music, art and fun on Monday.
Starting on a bright note, the town choir hit a chord on the Post Office steps just after midday.
Following at 2.30pm, a group of junior musicians including a boy band (aged under 14) were the first to showcase their talents this week. Providing an hour of music, their set drew an appreciative crowd.
That night an official gala launch uncorked the carnival at the School of Arts, with a special screening of the Boy from Oz documentary.
The red carpet event attracted visitors from as far as Mackay in Queensland. There will be a second screening on Sunday.
Inspired by the locally born songman Peter Allen, the carnival is a tribute to the internationally renowned performer. It has been 20 years since Peter Allen passed away (June 18, 1992) but his legacy is helping launch a musical renaissance for Tenterfield.
Behind the scenes, musical educators Grant Ovenden and Peter Harris have been driving the professional development program in Tenterfield.
Many would be unaware of the enormous efforts being channelled by these quiet achievers, not to mention the commitment displayed by more than 30 young participants.
Rehearsals and training, including industry based technical skills, have been in process all year.
Wintersong is a musical youth initiative, building talent and providing performance opportunities, along with the carnival arts program.
It is only the town’s second carnival but it promises many great highlights. A host of young performers will be making their stage debut at the Tenterfield Tribute Concert tomorrow night.
The Tenterfield Troubodours concert lineup includes circus, dancers, singers and technical crew in a unique theatrical production.
“This year we will also be showcasing six young indigenous singers,” Wintersong spokesperson Gail Galloway said.
“This has the makings of a musical revolution in Tenterfield. It could well be the start of a stellar career for some of these young women.”
The concert will feature previous Wintersong graduates who are now blossoming into seasoned performers and young songwriters.
Twenty-year-old Joshua Moylan was part of the 2009 pilot program and returns for his third Wintersong concert.
Sixteen-year-old singer songwriter Sarah Eriksson, first staged in 2010, is now being booked for professional gigs, recorded her first CD and toured to the Gold Coast as part of the FretFest lineup.
Sara now lives in Stanthorpe but remains committed to the Tenterfield programs. Wintersong has helped this young star find her wings. Expect to see more new talent flying in the near future.
For further details, log onto www.wintersong.org.au.