Brothers perform for show

Lakeside organiser Ian Edward was pretty reluctant when the concert's artistic director asked if he and his three brothers would perform at the special 20th show.

But after a bit of arm twisting, Tim Beveridge managed to convince Mr Edward a performance from the Edward Brothers at the Symphony - The 20th Lakeside Concert - would be entirely appropriate.

Mr Edward said he and brothers Harry, Stuart and David were excited to take the stage on Saturday night at the annual Lakeside concert.

They will be singing Ka Waiata, a song special to the brothers, which has been arranged by Rotorua musician Richard Anaru.

"We wanted a song that reflects our life and we are dedicating the song to the women in our lives and our wonderful mother (Isla Edward who died in 2012)."

Mr Edward, who has been the organiser of the concert for the past 20 years, said he was taken aback when Mr Beveridge suggested the brothers perform.

"I was reluctant but it is the spirit of which he wants us to be involved that convinced me. He wants to show Rotorua people."

Harry Edward said the brothers had rehearsed and performed enough that they shouldn't be nervous, but stepping out on the stage would be a different experience.

"After sitting in the crowd for 20 years, it's a bit daunting. There will be a lot of people there."

He said they had performed with a band before but usually just with guitar accompaniment.

"Working with the (Auckland Philharmonia) orchestra will be a different experience," he said.

When asked if he thought that being local they might get the biggest applause of the night, Harry Edward said: "It depends. I'll tell you when it's over."