MUSIC TO SUPPORT GIFTED EDUCATION

World renowned concert pianist Lorin Hollander will perform in a benefit concert for the University of New South Wales' Gifted Education Research, Resource and Information Centre (GERRIC) on 7 September.

A former child prodigy himself, Dr Hollander has been an advocate for gifted education for many years and is donating his appearance to raise funds for GERRIC 's programs for gifted and talented Australian children.

Although Dr Hollander's performance will comprise the major part of the program, nine young Australian musicians and singers, aged 17-20, will appear as supporting performers.

According to Professor Miraca Gross, Director of GERRIC: "These young people are quite remarkable. I find it inspiring that they are willing to support GERRIC in its work to assist young people who may one day be equally talented in their own fields but who currently have not been assisted to develop their abilities into achievements."

Dr Hollander is in Australia working at a number of high schools, giving Master Classes to musically gifted students, leading workshops on performance anxiety and working with teachers.

As well as conducting research into gifted education, GERRIC runs programs for gifted and talented students during each January and July school vacation period. Scholarships funded by benefits such as this concert make it possible for students isolated by distance or suffering from socio-economic disadvantage to participate in these programs.

WHAT: Lorin Hollander Gala Performance: A gift to GERRIC
WHERE: The Sir John Clancy Auditorium, Kensington campus, UNSW
WHEN: 7.30 - 10.30pm Friday, 7 September 2001
COST: $55 - Adults, $33 - Children and Students
CONTACT: GERRIC on 9385 1972

MEDIA CONTACT: Victoria Collins, Public Affairs and Development, tel. 9385 3644.