Proud faces and heartfelt performances wherever you looked.

That was the scene of the third and final night of the annual Heartland Bank Music Festival in Ashburton last week.

Under the direction of Anthony Dorreen, the renditions of Frozen Orange Juice, Follow You Follow Me and The Final Countdown featured funky instrument solos getting everyone fully into a a groove.

Hinds School, led by Summah Ralston, opened the night with Solar Power/Te Ao Marama, a stunning start featuring talented student musicians on the drums and guitar. Their beautiful rendition of Carry Me Home was a favourite.

Hampstead School, under Kerrin Corcoran, delivered polished versions of Nature and Love Song to Earth, with strong vocals and charming actions that delighted the audience.

Mel Sloan led the proud Netherby School performers, who brought power to The Climb and confidence to We Know the Way, supported with very impressive instrumentalists.

Kerrin Corcoran led a humorous She’ll Be Right, an energetic Thank You for the Music, and a very soulful Sound of Silence. 

Guest performer Molly Harrison was inspirational with a beautiful Landslide and an original song., From the Hillside.

Jennifer Williams conducted an energetic Always Find Your Way Back Home, I Lived, and a very heartfelt You Will Be Found, another favourite.

The representative choir, directed by Jo Castelow, wowed with an a cappella Wellerman and beautiful harmonies throughout Song for Sarajevo and Everybody.

It was a truly inspiring evening and a continuation of nurturing the love of music in our young performers.

Reviewed by: Jessie Thomson