Editorial
Schomberg has plenty of young Idols

Although the house was just about full Saturday afternoon, it's something of a pity that more people weren't out for the second Showcase of the Schomberg Idol competition.

There were 13 local young people who stood up and gave it their all in this contest, which is being hosted by the Schomberg Agricultural Society, and in the process, they provided a very pleasant afternoon of entertainment. It was clear the audience enjoyed it, although it's true there might have been something special for the parents of these competitors. The selections that were sung were all from the '70s and '80s; like their vintage.

But it really doesn't matter whose vintage was catered to. Fine music that's well performed is always a delight, and such was certainly the case Saturday.

True, there might be some differing factors motivating these talented performers. Some might be looking for feathers to add to their caps, or possible stepping stones toward career aspirations, or a certain feeling of accomplishment or maybe just some bragging rights. But in it all, one motivation was clear in all of them - They were on stage doing something they really enjoy. And they did it well too.

It might be easy to shrug off this event, dismissing it all as a bunch of kids doing kid stuff. To anyone holding such views, we put this simple question - Have you ever, either when you were young or not so young, stood at the front of a hall with more than 100 people, many of them total strangers, and sung? Very few of us have ever done that, and it's safe to say that many of us would never have the guts to try it.

But there were 13 youngsters from this area who did just that Saturday. Whether they did it well, or could stand some improvement, is irrelevant. They did it, and are thus worthy of our admiration.

The Schomberg Idol competition will continue in the coming weeks, with the finale at Schomberg Fair in May.

Not that anyone ever needs an excuse to attend the fair. But we think this year's is going to offer an added special charm, thanks to these aspiring and inspiring Idols.

Well done all!