march 4 - 10 | 2014
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circulating in wangaratta, myrtleford, bright, mt beauty, beechworth, yackandandah, rutherglen, chiltern and districts
Musical connection By KYLIE WILSON
CONNECTION:
Musician Richard Perso loves to make a connection with his audience.
WITH
MANDI
RSPCA
WITH
MONTY
FILM VAMPIRE
ACADEMY
WINE TALK WITH
ANITA
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GARDENING
HE has performed for enthusiastic crowds on massive stages in Canada and America, immersed himself in the vibrant melting pot that is New York and performed on the same bill with some of his idols on stage around Australia. But for Richard Perso, set to perform at this week’s Myrtleford Festival, living his life and making music in the North East is where his heart lies. It was the Yackandandah Folk Festival that first fuelled his passion for music, and it is in Yackandandah where he feels the most at home. “There’s something special about Yackandandah, it’s such a beautiful place and it’s always felt like home,” he said. The past few years have been a whirlwind of recording and touring for Richard, and he is continuing to perform constantly, while writing material for his third album. “It’s always an exciting process,” he said, admitting that making a connection with the audience was the ultimate reward. “When the gap closes between the performer and the crowd, there’s a certain atmosphere and emotion it creates,” he said. “We’re becoming disconnected, and music brings us back. “Without music, the world would be a scarier place.” During his time overseas, Richard was thrilled to share festival billings with some of the biggest names in music, including BB King, Bjork and the Dixie Chicks.