Music 4U 2011

The Rotary Club of Ryde recently hosted its annual music for you concert. This now annual event is an eclectic mix of local talent who give up their time to stage a unique concert to raise funds for Rotary Foundation and The End Polio Now Campaign.

The evening was organised by Ryde Rotary Clubs Past President Paul Ferguson, introduced by Ryde Rotary Clubs President Elect Neil Gurney and hosted by Ryde Rotary Clubs Past President David Harrison.

The audience were greeted on arrival and during the interval to the sounds of Ryde Schools Swing Band.

The first act of the evening was the rousing and very talented Wight Diamonds Marching Band which certainly started the evening off with a bang!

This was followed by two choristers Eden and Isaac from the Church choir, they sang the sacred solo 'The Lord Bless You and Keep You'.

Eden's older sister Grace, who also happens to be the Churches head chorister accompanied them.

Piano accompaniment was by Rich Wiseman from Medina College.

Next to perform were Ryde Schools award winning pop group No White Flags. A very talented bunch of young musicians who played pop songs to the audience.

The last act in the first period were South Wight Youth Theatre who gave extracts of their next production.

An interval was held to give the audience to stretch and refresh themselves at the bar.

The first act of the second half was Brian McDonald accompanied on the piano by his wife Valerie McDonald. Brian mused and sang songs to the audience.

Next up was the splendid figure of local GP Dr Cooney with his bagpipes. Not a single person was able to drop off during his rousing performance!

Last up was the energetic and very talented Medina Ukulele Band with their music teacher Rich Wiseman. Fresh from playing at the Isle of Wight Festival, the Rhythm Tree Festival and The Isle of Wight Bestival they were a treat to behold. Despite them playing in a Church and to a slightly 'senior' audience they were applauded, cheered and shouted to with cheers of more at the end of their performance.

Last up to round the evening up was the first verse of Amazing Grace being sung by Church head chorister Grace, from the second verse she was then joined by the audience along with Dr Cooney on his bagpipes.

Finally a draw to place for the raffle of a DAB radio.

I can hardly wait to see what next years performance has to offer.

NG