Fundraising campaign to help vocalist take up position with RAM in London

28/2/99
Arts Minister Peter Foss launched a fundraising campaign today to assist 28-year-old vocalist Mandy Groom take up a position at the Royal Academy of Music in London.
Mandy, who grew up in Australind (south-west of Western Australia), overcame stiff competition against 300 international applicants to win one of only 15 places available to international students.
Speaking at a function at the Bunbury Entertainment Centre, Mr Foss acknowledged the arts community in Bunbury which had supported Mandy's artistic development through the organisation of events such as the Bunbury Music Festival.
"Mandy won numerous awards in both the piano and vocal sections of the Music Festival over a 14-year period, and was winner of the South-West Music Guild perpetual trophy as 'The performer with most potential and musical ability in the
South-West'," Mr Foss said.
The Minister said Mandy's musical development had been greatly assisted by the ongoing support of a community that believed in providing every opportunity and encouragement for young people with an interest in the performing arts.
"Mandy is a fine example of how encouragement and support at a grass roots community level is just as essential to the development of our emerging artists as Government support," Mr Foss said.
"I wish Mandy and her supporters every success in raising the funds required for her to undertake her study in London.
"I am in no doubt that when she returns, music lovers throughout the South-West and beyond will reap the rewards of her efforts."
Media contact: Chris Morris - 9321 2222