Barrhead’s cup of youthful talent runneth over. For five days last week the 34th Barrhead Rotary Music Festival provided a platform for young people to display their abilities in music and speech arts. Those who attended would have come away with a feeling that the future of our planet is in very good hands.
Audiences were treated to a wealth of poetry – some in French – speech, singing, guitar and violin recitals, a handbell ringing chorus, a woodwind ensemble and piano pieces.
In a world where people are tempted by myriad distractions of modern technology – such as video games – it was uplifting to witness such devotion to something so timeless as music, something so beautiful as the spoken word.
What courage it must take to perform before a sea of faces, some judging your every move.
Daunting it may be, but the festival also offers a great chance for young people to grow, to take away lessons applicable not just to music, but to life. Hopefully, last week’s performers emerged with enhanced determination to develop their obvious talents. And enhanced confidence.
While it is right to celebrate the achievements of our youth, we should remember the festival is also about parents and teachers. It is about volunteers and donor groups like Barrhead Rotary Club. It is about people making Barrhead a richer and more enriching community.
