Young musicians in the area began competing in the 81st annual Humboldt & District Music Festival Monday. 

 "The start of the festival is always the first year and youngest players. They're just plain adorable. They're playing so well. I'm so proud of them already!", says Patti Durand, president of the Humboldt & District Music Festival Association board. 

First-year students and young pianists ages 6-9 started their performances at Westminster United Church. Durand says they are happy to have the use of the grand piano, co-owned by Arts Humboldt and the Music Festival.

Performances will continue Tuesday and Wednesday with an evening performance taking place on Tuesday night. Participants in band, strings, and guitar disciplines will perform at St. Augustine School April 23rd & 24th and Westminster United Church will welcome performances in vocal, choral and speech arts on April 25th & 26th.

Durand says the progression seen in all the young musicians each year is remarkable. "As students progress through their various disciplines, it's always new. As they build their skill and repertoire, it's pretty amazing to see their development year after year. It's a real pleasure to witness."

This year's festival will conclude with the Festival Showcase on Monday, April 30th at 7 pm at Westminster United Church, where certificates and scholarships will be awarded.

For more information, please visit the Humboldt & District Music Festival's Facebook page.