Goldfields organ festival a hit

SIR Donald Bradman’s granddaughter’s soprano vocals headlined a wildly successful opening weekend of the latest instalment of the popular Organs of the Ballarat Goldfields festival last night.The 17th running of the festival, which continues through to January 22, features 23 recitals overall showcasing classical music and historic venues across the city.At Ballarat Grammar’s Chapel of St Mark last night, crowds were treated to two of Australia’s best performers in organist and composer Dr Calvin Bowman and soprano Greta Bradman.Dr Bowman is currently senior lecturer and university organist at the Australian National University and associate artistic director of the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra.Ms Bradman’s voice has been acclaimed for its unusually large vocal range, warmth, flexibility and fullness of tone.She is a much sought-after recitalist and concert performer and a recording artist with Sony music.Ms Bradman received an ARIA Award nomination for her debut album, Forest of Dreams, in 2010 and was also short-listed as ‘best newcomer’ in the 2010 ABC Limelight Magazine Awards.She has undertaken national tours with the Australian String Quartet and Welsh baritone Aled Jones.Today features an organ and ensemble recital at Wesley College in Clunes, while the Neill Street Uniting Church will come alive tomorrow with the J.S. Bach Organ Recital from 8pm.For detailed program information and tickets, visit www. ballarat.com/organs