Cardinia Civic Concert Band - “You Raise Me Up” with Silvie Paladino

Silvie Paladino, acclaimed for her powerful voice and captivating stage presence, will grace the stage with the Cardinia Civic Concert Band, delivering a program that promises to uplift and inspire. 

Known for her roles in productions such as “Sunset Boulevard” and "Les Misérables", Paladino's collaboration with the band is set to be a spectacular highlight in the calendar.

The concert also serves to honour the illustrious career and community dedication of Kim Thomsen, the band's esteemed conductor and musical director. For over 30 years, Thomsen has been a cornerstone of the Cardinia Civic Concert Band, fostering musical excellence and enriching the community through her unwavering commitment and passion. 

"We are incredibly excited to present 'You Raise Me Up,' not only to showcase the exceptional talent of Silvie Paladino but also to celebrate Kim’s invaluable contributions to our band and community," said Jacklyn Kerr for the Band. "Kim's leadership and dedication have been instrumental in our ongoing success, and this concert is a tribute to her musical prowess and enduring legacy." Tickets for "You Raise Me Up" are now available and expected to sell quickly. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique celebration of music and community spirit.

Silvie Paladino Bio 

Silvie Paladino has established herself as one of Australia’s most versatile and talented entertainers. 

Her first theatrical role was Eponine in the Australasian tour of Les Misérables. She was then invited to perform the same role on the West End in the London production. In 1997, Silvie returned to London and performed the role of Fantine in Les Misérables for a successful two-year season. 
Silvie’s other Australasian credits include the role of Jeannie in Hair, Grizabella in the Australian and Asian tour of Cats, Ellen in Cameron Mackintosh’s Australian premiere of Miss Saigon, Donna in the smash hit Mamma Mia!, Rita in the world premiere of Sideshow Alley, Lady Thiang in The King And I, Florence in Chess (Green Room Award and Helpmann nomination), Clara in Stephen Sondheim’s Passion, Helen Bechdel in MTC’s Fun Home and the Fairy Godmother, in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. 

She has performed as guest solo artist with Australia’s leading orchestras and has also toured with Patrizio Buanne and Michael Bolton. She has had the honour of performing with celebrated theatre composers Stephen Schwartz and Stephen Sondheim. 
Silvie is also well known to Australian audiences through her perforances at special events including the AFL Grand Final, NRL Grand Final, The Boxing Day Cricket Test, The Asia Pacific Special Olympics, The Olympic Dinner in Beijing, A Night with Roger Federer and Friends – and regular television appearances including Carols by Candlelight. 

Her recordings include Silvie Paladino Sings Streisand (a live recording of her one- woman show for which she was nominated for a Green Room Award), Silvie Paladino – Christmas List, On My Own, When You Believe, O Holy Night and I Give You My Heart with the Salvation Army Band. 
Silvie is currently playing the role of Norma Desmond at select performances in Opera Australia’s production of Sunset Boulevard. 

Conductor  - Kim Thomsen Bio 

Kim Thomsen's illustrious career as a professional conductor, musician and educator spans over three decades, marked by pioneering achievements, distinguished performances, and dedicated service to the musical community. At the age of 17, Kim embarked on her musical journey by joining the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Band, among the first women accepted into this prestigious ensemble. During her six-year tenure with the RAN Band, Kim had the honour of performing for members of the Royal Family, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince Albert, Prince Charles, and the late Princess Diana. 
As an exceptional musician and musical director, Kim has performed in and conductoed over 50 musical theatre productions professionally and in the community. Her highlights include "Les Misérables," "The Producers," "Jesus Christ Superstar," personal favourite "Spamalot," and "West Side Story." Her versatility and exceptional musicianship have made her a sought-after performer in a variety of musical settings.

For the past 30 years, Kim has served as the Music Director of the Cardinia Civic Concert Band, a role she regards as one of her most significant musical achievements. Under her leadership, the band has flourished, embarking on two international tours to represent the Cardinia Shire in Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Italy. These tours included historic performances at venues such as Schoenbrunn Palace in Vienna, the Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg, Lingner Schloss in Dresden, Nuremberg Volksfest, and Richard Wagner Jagdschloss in Pirna, where the band received standing ovations. 
Kim's contributions extend beyond performance to music education. For over 20 years, she has been actively involved with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), where she has played a key role in writing music curricula, presenting at seminars, and serving in the past as a specialist music assessor and Chief Assessor. Her expertise is widely recognized, making her a highly sought-after clinician, presenter, conductor, and speaker. Kim's academic credentials are equally impressive, with a Master of Music Studies with a major in conducting, a Master of Education Leadership, a Bachelor of Music Industry (Performing Arts), a Diploma of Education, and Certificates IV in Music Performance and Instrumental Music. Currently, Kim serves as the Director of Performing Arts at a prestigious Catholic College, where she continues to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians. Kim is deeply loved and supported by her husband Peter and their sons Casey, Tanner, and Jasper. She feels profoundly humbled and grateful for their unwavering encouragement throughout her musical and professional journey. 
 

MC - Russel Broadbent

Russel Broadbent's journey from a small business owner to a seasoned politician highlights his unwavering commitment to community service and integrity. As a draper managing six shops and the lead singer in a band, Russel gained invaluable experience in people skills, hard choices, and steadfast commitment, which laid a strong foundation for his political career. Elected as a local councillor in 1980 and serving as Shire President, he honed his skills in collaboration across government levels. His dedication to public service continued with his election to the House of Representatives, where he has represented the Monash electorate with passion and integrity since 2004. 

Russel's deep connection with the community is evident through his involvement in small business, aged care, and disability sectors for well over 50 years. He advocates fiercely for increased respect, safety, and justice for women, equitable support for regional businesses, and stands against independent assessments for NDIS participants. Known for his persistence and determination, Russel’s decision to move to the crossbench in 2023 underscores his commitment to doing what is right for his constituents. Russel has been a proud supporter of the band, and an honorary patron member of the Cardinia Civic Concert Band for over 50 years. Russel’s passion for music and the arts, combined with his dedication to public service, continues to drive his efforts to represent and uplift all members of all communities.