Aziel Verner Wants to Thank Martinborough for Their Support

Some people may remember the diminutive young violinist, Aziel Verner, who played at the Martinborough Town Hall with the Wellington Youth Orchestra for a fundraiser to finance the new Medical Centre in 2007. Eleven at the time, his virtuosity for one so young captivated Ian Cresswell. Ian has been a champion of Aziel ever since making opportunities, when he can, to assist him financially with his studies.
Ian Cresswell has organised two benefit concerts for Aziel previously when he was about to embark on his studies. One of these concerts was held at St Andrews Church where Aziel was joined by 3 of his musical siblings in 2014. This concert raised $1300. The second concert was held at The Cabbage Tree Vineyard in 2015. Aziel took home $1000 from this concert too.

Now 21, Aziel has shown Ian that his faith in his ability was not misjudged. He has just completed the first 2 years of a 4 year course at Yong Siew Toh Conservatory, Singapore, where he is on a fees-paid scholarship. Aziel has recently won the Conservatory’s concerto competition (higher strings).
Soon, Aziel will be attending two working ”festivals”. This is necessary to further enhance his technique and musicality. One of these festivals will be held in Singapore; the other in Israel in May and August 2017 respectively. The total cost of the two festivals is $NZ6500.
Ian Cresswell wants to raise some funds to assist Aziel to pay for these learning experiences. Among other things he is setting up a crowd funding page. In the meantime, while Aziel is home in Wellington visiting his family, Ian is organising another benefit concert for Aziel to help fund the festivals.
This will be a benefit concert with a difference. Aziel has agreed to play provided no charge is made to attend the concert. It is his way of thanking the Martinborough community for the contribution they have already made to his musical education. Aziel will be accompanied by his brother, Asaph, a gifted pianist.
Ian Cresswell requests that in lieu of free admission, those attending make a donation. This will be a rewarding concert.
The concert will take place at; The Cabbage Tree Vineyard House, 52 Kitchener Street, on Saturday 27 May at 11am – 12:15pm.
Light refreshments will follow. For those who want a glass of wine, this can be purchased at the cellar door. For further information contact Ian Cresswell
Winifred Bull Ian Cresswell