|
|
|
|
|
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FESTIVAL In May 1938 Horsforth Music Festival was launched. It lasted one afternoon and had just 55 entries ! The festival was originally formed as a competition between local churches. Apart from the war years during which it was suspended, the festival has continued to flourish. In 1954 drama classes were introduced. Louie Illingworth (nee Senior), an elocution teacher from Pudsey was responsible for raising the standard of performance in drama and the festival was extended to run for five evenings. As the entries grew it became necessary to employ two adjudicators and since 1981 the drama section has been in the capable hands of Pauline Swart as drama secretary. The music section became popular with the enthusiasm of Ena Brown and Eileen McKay two local music teachers. Instrumental sections, male voice and barber shop choirs were added to the syllabus which had originally started with piano solos, choirs and solo singing. Some of the winning soloists have become professional musicians and singers. A succession of music secretaries have continued to work hard for the festival and ensure the success of the music section. In 1974 the festival enlisted the help of Jean Pearce and the dance section was created. The dance section quickly achieved an extremely high standard and rescued the festival’s finances. It has always been held in Easter Week. The North-East tap and modern championships and one of the final heats of Miss Dance of Great Britain were added to the syllabus. Some of the competitors in the dance section have won the prestigious Miss Dance of Great Britain. After a long period as dance secretary Annis Somers resigned and for 18 years the position was held by Susan Verity. In 1984 a grant from Leeds City Council allowed the purchase of the Steinway grand piano which has been a great asset. The festival always employs adjudicators recommended by the National Federation of Festivals We aim to provide a friendly atmosphere in which young musicians, actors and dancers have the opportunity to perform and entertain and gain constructive feedback from well qualified adjudicators. Over the years many people have given their valuable time and expertise as officers, committee members and festival helpers. For all their voluntary contributions we, the current committee are extremely grateful and hope that in our hands the future of the festival is secure. The festival celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1993 and now attracts entries not only from the Leeds area but throughout Yorkshire and the North-East. The festival now runs over a period of three weeks and regularly has over 1000 entries !
AWARDS Louie Illingworth Award - Louie Illingworth was associated with Horsforth Festival for many years holding the positions of drama secretary and chairman. Following her death in 1983 the festival received a bequest which became the Louie Illingworth bursary and was first awarded in 1985.The Louie Illingworth award is given to the most promising competitor from each section. The Bartlett Award - The Bartlett award was first given in 1991 and followed a request for sponsorship. Horsforth Insurance Brokers generously give a bursary each year. The Bartlett award is given to a competitor from each section to enhance their performances. The bursary is paid to the music, drama or dance teacher of the competitor’s choice for lessons.
|
