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Music school hosts concert featuring cream of the crop

Excitement rises among students of Richmond Music School as they are gearing up to showcase their passion for music during the annual Concerto Concert March 2.

Excitement rises among students of Richmond Music School as they are gearing up to showcase their passion for music during the annual Concerto Concert March 2.

Sixty musical talents - including violin genius Spencer Tsai, 8, and piano miracle Mika Iwai, 10 - have been selected to perform with the professional Concerto Orchestra led by conductor James Malmberg.

Taking the stage for a large audience is an unforgettable experience for the soloists and ensembles participating, said principal Patricia Rolston.

"Imagine you took piano lessons and worked very hard. Then you get the opportunity to sit down at the piano and let yourself be accompanied by an orchestra. That's like a magic carpet."

To maintain a balance, a variety of instruments will be incorporated in the concert of professional quality.

Not only is the school capable of making itself well-known within the community, but "we've also attracted new donors and new students through our concerts over the past few years," said Rolston.

In the meantime, the school has also ditched its elite label and started to develop programs for those who are musically gifted yet incapable of paying high registration fees.

"Our violin outreach program, subsidized by the BC gaming commission, teaches students at a low rate. That group will be one of the stars of the concert," said Rolston.

She added there is also a piano program, in which recent graduates educate beginners. "We have done major efforts to bring music to everyone, rich or poor, young or old," stated Rolston.

And whether they are talented or not, those eager to learn music are welcome to join, she concluded.

The Concerto Concert will be held Saturday, March 2 at Richmond Music School Recital Hall, 11371 No. 3 Rd., starting at 7.30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for both students and seniors and free for those aged 12 and younger. For reservations, call 604-272-5227 or email richmondmusic@telus.net.