The organisers are now in the throes of fundraising for the Music-by-Youth components of the festival, the various elements of which weave their way through the festival weekend. The first of these fundraisers is a Champagne Soirée on May 18 from 4.30pm at the Old Butter Factory. Fabulous food and wine will be accompanied by some of Bellingen's fine young musicians and singers. A great attraction is the regular silent auction and there are many fine items to be won.

Tickets are $25 and are available from Emporium Bellingen and the Old Butter Factory Café or on the day at the door. Tickets include food and one glass of wine.

The Festival's Music-by-Youth project, supported in part by Bellingen's Camp Creative, provides opportunities for local music students to interact, learn and work with professional musicians and give public performances. This year, as in previous years, the project has been actively and generously supported by classical music professionals, the Acacia Quartet, who mentor, record and perform the works of up to eight local HCS music composition students.

Acacia violinist Lisa Stewart says the project, "is a remarkable showcase of local young talent combined with support from the community. To witness such support is a joy and it is a pleasure and delight to get to play the HSC compositions of these very gifted young people".

The festival is grateful for the support of the community. Many local businesses provide financial assistance including the Bellingen Shire Council, Planet Lighting and Windsong Travel. We thank Ray and Pia Seaward for our use of the Old Butter Factory café for the soiree. Many other local businesses and private individuals help with the fundraising event. Our thanks also to Musica Viva and Regional Arts NSW for their support of the Music-by-Youth Project.

Internationally acclaimed classical guitarist Karin Schaupp at her performance with the Bellingen Youth Orchestra at the 2018 Fine Music Festival.