Young violinist scholarship winner
AN Invercargill student’s passion for spreading music within the community has been recognised with the Alex Lindsay Memorial Scholarship.
Violinist Donald Thomson was awarded the scholarship, which is named after distinguished Invercargill violinist Alex Lindsay.
He will receive $1000 to further his musical studies as well as be invited to undertake further community input using his music.
The scholarship is awarded each year by the Invercargill City Council (ICC) on behalf of the Southland Community Arts Council.
The 19yearold Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) student said it was an honour to be recognised.
‘‘I heard about it a few years ago, when a couple of my other friends applied and received the scholarship. A music teacher mentioned I should apply for it because I qualified, so I found the form online and filled it out. I was extremely grateful to have received it.’’
ICC community development manager Mary Napper said Donald’s application stood out because of his extensive community service.
His contribution has included being invited to perform for several prominent community organisations, including Rotary and the RSA, as well as public events.
Using music to ‘‘move people’’ as well as ‘‘enhance any gathering’’ gives him the passion to perform at these events Mr Thomson said.
He started playing the violin when he was 4 years old, encouraged by his mother. His talents were further encouraged by his musical father and two younger brothers.
‘‘My brothers both grew up learning the piano and the violin alongside me. They have since branched out, picking up the guitar and bass, which has been perfect in helping us perform as a family. Mum has played piano all her life and now has a piano studio with about 30 students. My father also plays classical guitar.’’
Mr Thomson said the funds from the scholarship would help him towards his goal of sitting the Licentiate of Trinity College London (LTCL) exam.