A young Townsville violinist is continuing to excel after being named this year’s winner of the Theodore Kuchar Scholarship for excellence in music.
Lara Herlambang accepted the two-year $4,000 scholarship from the Australian Festival of Chamber Music and Townsville City Council this week.
The orchestral scholarship honours the founding artistic director of the Australian Festival of Chamber Music, Theodore Kuchar, and provides financial support to young emerging musicians to assist with costs for tuition and professional development.
Lara plays first violin in the Townsville Barrier Reef Orchestra as well as Pimlico State High School’s Orpheus Chamber Strings ensemble and senior symphony orchestra.
Lara said she was delighted to receive the 2019 Scholarship.
“It’s amazing. It’s been such a dream of mine to accomplish this award ever since my friend Emily received it,” said Lara.
“I plan to spend some of the money on getting things I really need for my violin like a new bow, perhaps even investing in a new violin and a lot of it will go to saving for University funds and possibly going to the Conservatorium of Music after high school.”
Executive Director of AFCM, Gavin Findlay, said the Theodore Kuchar Scholarship has a strong track record of advancing music in Townsville.
“The award recognises excellence in music and is aimed at students who have a high level of talent and the potential to go on and create music as a performer or music teacher,” said Gavin.
“Quite a number of past winners have gone on to make careers in music, and a number who have come back are teaching in Townsville high schools, playing in the Barrier Reef Orchestra and so on.
“It was a very close competition this year – it always is – and Lara just had the poise and confidence and assurance in her playing and in her approach to her music making.”
Lara won first place in the 2019 Eisteddfod in the bowed string solo (ages 16-18) and the instrumental quartet – Amadeus string quartet. Lara also won the 2019 AUSTA Senior stringfest (Grade 7-8).
For more information visit www.afcm.com.au.
