Guitarist David Knight is setting out on a road well travelled by seasoned musicians Craig Hannaford of The Hannafords and Richie Lanford who fronts The Engine Room.
By Kath Gannaway
DAVID Knight will be in good company when he unlocks his guitar case at the third annual Healesville Music Festival in March.
The young musician is representative of the festival’s role in providing a stage for up-and-coming musicians, in company with the best of seasoned, home-grown musicians and acts which have performed around the world.
“These guys are the sort of musicians that make older guitarists consider hanging up their six strings for good,” Healesville musician and festival organiser Ewan Cloonan says of Knight and Healesville guitarist/songwriter Kurt Gentle who will also perform at the festival.
That may be, but it is the mix of old and new, refreshing opportunity and moments of brilliance, and the energy-charged diversity of genres that gives the festival it’s broad appeal.
The line up includes some of Yarra Valley’s hardest working and most-loved acts including The Dukes of Despair, The Hannafords, TK and Rose, The Engine Room, Lilly and King and Fats Wah Wah. The internationally acclaimed percussion, bass and groove-driven Ganga Giri will close the festival this year.
“These guys have been playing festivals around the globe for many years and are sure to finish the night on a high note to be topped only by the fire show finale,” Ewan said.
In line with the festival’s focus on community, youth and sustainability, the festival will stage the inaugural songwriting competition, the Healesville Music Festival Rising Star Award.
The competition is open to soloists and duos under the age of 25, and songs must be written on the theme of sustainability.
The winning act will be invited to perform on the main stage at the festival, get a paid gig at a local venue, airplay on Yarra Valley FM and a commemorative plaque.
Entries close on 10 March and details are available on the festival website www.healesvillemusicfestival.com.au .
The Healesville Music festival will be held at Queen’s Park in Healesville on Saturday 24 March.
