Portsmouth celebrates breadth & depth of musical talent

March 21, 2013 - PRLog -- In the preceding weeks more than 4000 amateur performers will have competed in singing, music, speech, drama and dance, aged from 5 to over 80.  George Jenkins, a regular at the Festival, is at 81 one of the oldest entrants performing in the Vocal and Speech & Drama categories.

Other categories include brass, choral, dance, guitar, piano, recorder, strings, woodwind and rock and pop.  The adjudicator for this year’s rock and pop category is renowned saxophonist Steve Grainger who has worked with Culture Club back in their 1980’s hayday, The Beach Boys, Deniece Williams and Jimmy Witherspoon.

A registered charity, the purpose of the Festival has remained the same since its inception 81 years ago

“It provides an incredible performance experience and opportunity to gain valuable feedback from many experts” commented Festival Chairman Gwenda Dearsley. “We truly are open to everyone -  musicians, singers, actors and dancers of all ages."

Over the seven weeks of the festival it’s not just prizes and certificates that have been up for grabs.  The Festival has awarded many unique prizes for the most talented including attending a brass masterclass, performing with the Solent Symphony Orchestra in its spring concert in 2014 and for two lucky young musicians, sponsorship to attend the European Youth Music Summer School.

A bursary fund is also available which young people entering further or specialist education in the performing arts can apply for. The Festival hopes to support young people with grants towards books, materials and living expenses whilst receiving specialist training in performing arts.

Tickets for the Gala concert on 28th March are available from the Box Office at the Kings Theatre www.kings-southsea.co.uk, doors open 19.30 pm.