Charity concert raises good sum for Victim Support

July 16th, 2012
[by David Armstrong]

The impressive sum of $1006 was raised for Victim Support while an audience of about 60 people were treated to a variety of local musical talent at the annual Uniting Parish Charity Concert held yesterday.

Nine acts received an appreciative reception in the two-hour concert, all originating from in and around Motueka. Compere Jim Fry linked them all with informative introductions as well as some very funny jokes.

Keith Longcroft Niel played four organ numbers that showcased his fast-paced, freestyle talent. His Sabre Dance in particular stirred the air and impressed the audience with his finger speed.

The Blue Belles, Gael Williams and Carol Wyllie, displayed their usual professional country music style and close harmonies with a bracket including Lace Covered Window, Smile and the beautiful homesick Kiwi love song Songs of Home.

Under John Rimmer's direction, a quartet from Motueka District Brass showed why they were placed at the recent regional brass bands championships, playing Sabbath Morn with sensitivity and tight, well-balanced harmony. This was followed by a strong cornet solo by Ross Hall, playing Swedish Hymn.

Local keyboard experts Bill Buck and Joan Harkness combined for an enjoyable bracket of piano duets, beginning with the Overture ot the Marriage of Figaro and ending with the Gold and Silver Waltz. Although this was a new combination for them, both they and the audience thoroughly enjoyed their skill and how they interacted.

Further variety was introduced after the interval when Miriam and Bernie Cruthley played four whimsical numbers for accordion and mandolin/mandola. The instrumental combo worked particularly well for Lara's Theme from Doctor Zjivago and Try to Remember.

This was followed by the undoubted highlight of the afternoon, four numbers by the female barbershop group, Stella A Cappella. All songs were delivered with the harmonic precision and innovative verve this group brings to its work these days, and the humour shone through particularly with the tongue-in-cheek I Wanna Come Back as a Man.

The audience went home with some lighter hits of the 50s and 60s in their heads after Terry Frater and his backers Val and David sang and led those who wanted to join in with songs like Green Door, White Sports Coat and Save the Last Dance for Me.

After the interval Pam Smale, representing Victim Support, thanked the crowd for coming and donating so freely, and told of the excellent behind-the-scenes work done by their volunteer group throughout Tasman and Golden Bay in helping people who had been victims or affected in some way or another by crimes.

Terry Frater and friends round off the Charity Concert

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