News from Tillingham Festival of Arts

SPRING 2010

Following a successful Ninth Biennial Festival and thanks to the continued support from our sponsors and friends, in what has been a difficult economic climate, we face the future with both our artistic pride and finances in good shape. However, for personal and family reasons both our Hon. Gen. Sec.- Mary Matthews and our Treasurer - Victoria Duce stood down at the A.G.M. after many years service.

Nevertheless in spite of administrative difficulties we managed to organise an interim jazz concert in February although we failed to reach all our friends with the news of the concert in good time, for which we apologies. We will do better next time.

The talented Jazz singer and pianist Claire Harper brought her Trio to Tillingham on 27th February. An appreciative audience of 60 or so local residents enjoyed a great evening with the music of Cole Porter, the songs, so well known and the instrumental ‘riffs’ by drummer Steve Creece and double bass Jonty Fisher so truly astounding, that this was real improvisatory interplay at its best. The presentation and sheer talent of all all three was a rare treat so it was no wonder that a warm, happy audience left the hall asking for a return visit. This may be possible as part of next year’s festival week.

Our next concert will be:
A Piano Recital by Grace Francis
26th June 2010, in the Congregational Church, South Street, Tillingham.

We are indeed fortunate to be able to present this exceptionally gifted young player who is currently being hailed with very considerable acclaim. The ambiance of the chosen venue, with which many will be familiar as the location of our Arts and Craft Exhibitions, will add to the enjoyment of what we feel sure will be a most rewarding evening.

Grace has been chosen by Vladimir Ashkenazy to open the Lugano Festival in Switzerland in April where she will play the Greig Concerto with the European Union Youth Orchestra. For the latest news, reviews and more about this exciting young artist we urge you to visit her website www.gracefrancispianist.com

Tickets are available from our Box Office, details of which may be found on the enclosed Booking Form. Seats are available at £12.50.

To Continued Friendship:
We do hope you feel able to continue to support the Festival and we attach the necessary ‘Friends’ renewal form accordingly. Be assured you are all very important to our organisation and it is to you, our friends, we turn for help. We would therefore ask you all to consider the vacant position of Secretary and do all you can to help us fill this important and satisfying role. Nominations and/or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

A list of previous Festivals can be found here.