Real 'shine' Pianist To Launch Charity Providing Microfinance In Africa With Special Concert At Sydn

Real 'Shine' Pianist to Launch Charity Providing Microfinance in Africa with Special Concert at Sydney Opera House

On Saturday 18th October Simon Tedeschi - the man whose hands actually played the piano in the film about Australian pianist David Helfgott - will help the MicroLoan Foundation (MLF) launch in Australia with a gala concert at the Sydney Opera House. Simon will be joined by Australian jazz pianist Kevin Hunt in the concert called "I Want To Play Like Him!", a mix of jazz and classical piano which will delight jazz and classical aficionados alike.

All profits from the event will go to support MLF's work in Malawi. Originally established in the UK in 2002, MLF provides business loans and long term support to women through business training and mentorship.

In accepting the role of Patron Simon said "I was thrilled and fascinated to learn about the work MLF is doing. As an artist, I am so excited to be part of this initiative and urge the support of the wider community."

As patron Simon joins Bob Geldof KBE, founding patron of the charity in the UK. The concert at the Opera House will be hosted by radio/TV personality and journalist Julie McCrossin.

Chairman of MLFA Brian Keen said "We are delighted that Simon has agreed to become Patron - my wife and children were born in Malawi and we moved to Australia in the mid 70s. I chose to become part of MLF because I believe it is a powerful way to help people living in the tenth most impoverished country in the world, devastated by drought, famine and AIDS."

Tickets are $95 - profits go to support the MicroLoan Foundation's work in Africa. To book (150 seats available) go to http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/whatson/microloanfoundation.aspx.

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About MicroLoan Foundation (MLF)

Established in the UK in 2002, MLF provides small loans (otherwise known as microloans), basic business training and continuing guidance to groups of women in sub-Saharan Africa. MLF has made microloans to over 12,500 women. For more information visit www.microloanfoundation.org.au.

UK-based MLF founder Peter Ryan will be available for interview in Sydney 17-20 Oct. Simon Tedeschi and Brian Keen are also available.

To arrange interviews or for media invitations to the launch concert please contact:
David Bateson on
07 3901 1055 / 0402 332287.

SOURCE: MicroLoan Foundation Australia