Eisteddfod action

A MODERN vocal and updated classical vocal are among the exciting features of the upcoming West Gippsland Music and Drama Eisteddfod.
The vocal convenor for the Eisteddfod is local singer, Pauline Hastings and she is urging all local amateur vocal performers to enter these new sections and share their enjoyment of music with audiences at the West Gippsland Arts Centre in August.
The modern vocal section has been added this year to cater for the many vocalists who learn and sing contemporary-style music including pop, rock, hip-hop, jazz or blues etc.
Entrants can bring along their own accompanist to either use the piano provided by the Arts Centre, or any other single instrument. Alternatively, an entrant can self-accompany or sing to a professional CD backing track.
Singer/songwriters have also been catered for with a dedicated section for entrants wishing to perform their own composition.
The adjudicator for the modern vocal sections is Melbourne-based Catrina Seiffert, an acclaimed singer, songwriter, pianist and recording artist.
Ms Seiffert has performed widely overseas and regularly in Melbourne in a variety of musical ensembles such as the Catrina Seiffert Jazz Trio and BOPeRA and as a classical soloist with the Astra Ensemble.
The classical vocal sections are open to amateur singers and students of all ages and this year the Eisteddfod committee is providing an accompanist for all performers, if required, in the classical vocal sections at no cost to the entrant.
An aria award has now been established, with a $600 prize.
A vocal scholarship section for classical singers aged between 18 and 24 has also been sponsored by the Pretty Family in memory of Tim Pretty. The prize money in this scholarship section is $500.
Susan Breen Clarke, a teacher of classical voice, is the adjudicator for the classical vocal sections.
The modern vocal sections are scheduled for 1 or 2 August and the classical vocal sections will be held on 14 and 15 August at the West Gippsland Arts Centre.
Entries close on 5 June.
For a copy of the full schedule of events or for more information call Pauline Hastings on 5623 6665.