Saturday night's Bellingen Youth Orchestra Prom Concert was a beautiful moment offering welcome respite from the smoky world outside.
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The town's Memorial Hall was packed with friends and families, there to watch and hear these talented young musicians perform excerpts from Prokofiev, Elgar, Bizet and more.
The Bellingen Youth Orchetra Sinfonia's ACO-style performance of Selections from The Danish Quartet led by Amber Davis was riveting, as were the solo vocal performances of Sam Borgert and Jessie O'Connor.
This orchestra just keeps getting better and better, and judging from the calibre of the BYO String School, there is no lack of talent coming through for the years ahead.
All the musicians put their heart and souls into every piece, clearly enjoying the evening as much as the audience.
This audience member was particularly warmed by the many spontaneous smiles on faces as favourite passages were played.
There is no doubting this orchestra owes much to the inspiring leadership of Ann Phelan, as well as Elizabeth Scott, Jacquie Gill, Pru Borgert, Amber Davis and the many other committed mentors and tutors that are part of the team.
There is also no doubting the truth of what Elizabeth Scott told us about the effect of playing beautiful music: "It does something to your heart - tears roll ... these young musicians sing in their dreams - playing music and being part of this orchestra is an investment in their future".
Donations are always welcome - for information go to bellingenyouthorchestra.com.au.