We missed a rather significant concert at the Ilott Theatre, Wellington Town Hall on Saturday 10 October.

NZSO Assistant Concertmaster Donald Armstrong and colleagues organized a Family Concert the proceeds from which went to the Sarah Lilli Fund which helps children in need to pursue creative, sporting or other interests.

Donald had a personal interest; his son was ‘best friends’ with Sarah Lilli who died aged ten, six years ago. She died suddenly of a rare brain disorder and her family, with Barnardos, set up the fund to help disadvantaged children by giving them the opportunity to pursue an educational, creative, sporting or social opportunity that interests them and is of benefit to their development and well-being. 

The Fund has already provided help to a number of children, in response to applications that are facilitated through Barnardos field workers. This has included tap shoes, football gear and subs, dance workshops, swimming lessons, guitar lessons, a special zoo trip and accommodation for a family holiday.

Those giving their services were: Donald Armstrong – presenter, with a quintet of NZSO musicians; Dancers from Chilton Dance Centre; Gabrielle Armstrong-Scott – violin; Lucy Brewerton – vocal; Aislinn Ryan with Kildunne School of Irish Dancing (Aislinn is one of the top Irish dancers in the world); Barber Shop Quartet: Blue Tones, St Patrick’s College; Choir: Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Nga Mokopuna.

If you are inspired to help, send an email to fundraising@barnardos.org.nz for a donation form to make a contribution or to pledge support to Barnardos and the Sarah Lilli Fund.

You can also make an online donation or make an AP donation to Barnardos bank account #06 0501 0509606 02, using the reference ‘Sarah Lilli Fund.’