A Symphony Vote

WHAT an absolutely fabulous night at Melbourne Town Hall where
Melbourne Symphony threw a wonderful Viennese gala.

Twinkle-toes Paul Mercurio had coached a small group of supporters in
the waltz and they showed their skill, or lack of, before the rest of
us took to the dance floor for the rarest of treats, dancing to the MSO.

Funds raised will go towards the MSO's 2007 European tour, part of the
orchestra's centenary celebrations that start in December 2006.

Caught up with cellist Faye Goldsmith, who has been with the MSO since
1970, following her mother, a violinist with the orchestra from 1939
until 1960.

Being a musician was inevitable, she says, and her grandmother was a
piano teacher.

Auctioneer Phil de Fegely, at times bursting into songs from the Sound
of Music, conducted a live auction. He was helped by Ian Cover. It
raised more than $100,000, double last year's amount. ``Darlene,'' on
the phone from New York, bid for the chance to be maestro for a day,
paying $15,000 to conduct the orchestra at a Sidney Myer Music Bowl
concert.

Soprano Amelia Farrugia, who had two changes of stunning Linda Britten
gowns, entertained.

MC Virginia Trioli, Amelia Farrugia, Susanna Caetani and other MSO
women also wore gorgeous frocks by Ms Britten.

Guests included Eddie Lim and Geraldine Hunt, Rod and Paige Fitzroy,
Elizabeth Proust and Brian Lawrence, Trevor Green and Mairi Nicolson,
Susie Wills, Maestro Oleg and Susanna Caetani.