The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
86th Arbroath Music Festival will have lots to trumpet about
Young talent set to shine at theatre as entries rise over all classes
Music pupils from across Tayside and Fife are tuning up for Angus’ premiere music festival which runs next week.
For five days the cream of the county’s young musicians will take the stage at the Webster Memorial Theatre for the 86th Arbroath Music Festival.
Early signs are this will, once again, be a festival to remember for competitors and audiences alike, with entries up over the entire breadth of classes.
Gillian Bartle, chairwoman of Arbroath Musical Festival Executive Committee, has invited the Angus public to get behind this year’s festival and support the various events throughout the week.
She said: “We have morning, afternoon and evening sessions and would welcome audiences to come in and support local talent.
“This is a wonderful life experience for the competitors. It is a unique event which supports the arts in education which doesn’t get much attention but which is absolutely crucial.”
The festival runs from Monday, March 5, to Friday, March 9, offering a wide range of competitions including music, song and speech.
It provides an opportunity for all individuals who have a love of performing as a soloist or group member the chance to perform in public and get constructive advice from experienced judges.
Gillian continued: “The evening session on Friday will be a concert featuring performances by participants recommended by the adjudicators and the Angus Schools Orchestra.”
She thanked Stagecoach plc who have again donated transport for primary school competitors.
She said: “Transport costs can be astronomical and it is something that is easily cut. The bus situation with Stagecoach has been our saving grace.
“We also have to thank all the teachers at Angus Council and private teachers for their tremendous work.
“We also have entrants from St John’s in Dundee who are regular attenders in numerous categories.”
Pupils from pre-school nurseries, primary, secondary and private teachers will display their various talents in classes from vocal and instrumental.
Members of the public are invited to attend any of the sessions as well as the concert on Friday, March 9, at 7 pm.
This is a wonderful experience for all the competitors. GILLIAN BARTLE FESTIVAL CHAIRWOMAN