Huon Valley Chamber Music Festival

I had a lovely gig on the Easter weekend at the inaugural Huon Valley Chamber Music Festival. This initiative was planned and co-ordinated by cellist Gwynn Roberts and pianist Jenni Fleming, now resident in Cygnet. The featured artist was internationally acclaimed clarinettist Paul Dean, visiting from Queensland for the weekend. There were 4 events - Friday and Saturday evenings, and Saturday and Sunday afternoons. The program comprised proper chamber music - Mozart, Brahms, Schubert and the like, as well as a rousing performance by the Derwent Valley Concert Band, and a jazz gig featuring Jenny and Ian Cocking (vox and bass), Aaron Entresz (gtr), Matt Ives (dr) and myself on keys. Our jazz set was opened by Jenni Fleming (piano and voice), Gwynn (cello) and Tony Roberts (bass) presenting the clever and entertaining repertoire of pianist/vocalist Blossom Dearie.

The weekend was a resounding success, with all performances gratifyingly well attended. We're all hoping that the festival will serve as a proof of concept for next year and on into the future. Congratulations to Gwynn and Jenni and all the volunteers who made it a memorable and musical experience!