For 20 years, Peter Grant OAM has been the driving force behind Knox City Council’s Carols by Candlelight event.
From coordinating performers to problem-solving bad weather, he has served as the Program Director for the annual celebration.
This week Mr Grant recalled the event’s humble beginnings two decades ago.
“There was no professional band and the stage was fairly basic,” he says.
“Not all that many people came and we didn’t get the crowds we do now. We’ve been able to build the show into something professional which of course entices good crowds out.”
Twenty years on, Knox Carols by Candlelight has evolved into a professional-quality show attended by up to 25,000 people.
“Audiences always love it,” Mr Grant says.
This year’s celebration will be streamed virtually from Knox Arts and Events Facebook allowing residents join in the Christmas fun from home.
Though he admits the behind-the-scenes coordination can be a “real challenge,” Mr Grant says he’s proud that more than 5,000 people tuned into last year’s virtual Carols.
In addition to running Carols, Mr Grant is active in music across Melbourne with a long career spanning many genres. His commitment to music was honoured in 2016 with the Medal of the Order of Australia, which cited his service as the Music Director of the Australian Army bands.
“Music is my life,” he says. “When you have the opportunity to produce a show for people to enjoy, well, that’s part of what I do in all other aspects of my life.”
Carols by Candlelight will be streamed on Saturday, December 11, 2021 at 7:15pm.
