Smith, Froude big winners at Rotary music fest

It was an evening filled with some of the best performances Bay St. George youth had to offer.

The 36th annual Rotary Music Festival concert was held March 13 - with more than 30 vocal, piano, instrumental and theatrical performances entertaining the audience at Stephenville's Arts and Culture Centre.

Rotarian and event MC Kevin Baker told the audience it was clear from all of the performances the Bay St. George area had the most talented young people in the province.

Several trophies and scholarships were handed out towards the end of the three-hour show. Evan Smith scored the Rose Bowl, the festival's top prize, in addition to best vocal, and best piano awards.

Chad Froude won for best instrumental; Stephenville Middle School concert band was named best band; and, Stephenville Elementary Grade 5 choir took home best choral accolades.

Mr. Smith, who has been performing at festival concerts for the past ten years, said it was an incredible feeling to win the Rose Bowl.

"Just complete recognition for all the hard work that goes into preparing for the festival," said Mr. Smith. "I wish everyone could receive the award and be able to feel as honored and appreciated as I do. It's quite an overwhelming experience though."

He noted much of his success is owed to his teachers and mentors. Upon receiving a congratulatory bouquet for his Rose Bowl win, Mr. Smith divvied up the blooms for two former instructors - voice teacher Jean House and piano teacher Mary Dawson.

"Of course, I'm now with Gary Graham for both piano and voice, so all the preparation this year is owed to him," he added. "He's a fantastic teacher and person."

Mr. Smith will go on to compete at the provincial musical festival - and is upbeat about life after graduating from high school this spring.

"My plans for the future are, quite generally, to be on the stage somewhere," he said. "I don't yet know what that entails ... but I've auditioned for MUN School of Music, so we'll see how that turns out. And if it doesn't work out, something will come along."

editor@thegeorgian.ca