As a treat at the official opening this Saturday afternoon, he has agreed to vary his full schedule to perform with Sinfonia, orchestra of the Mid North Coast, during its 'A Farewell Tribute' orchestral concert, which honours retiring honorary conductor James Hannah.

This is on at St John's Anglican Church at 2pm.

The following weekend, the 2012 festival ambassador will return to premiere a commissioned musical work by former Taree student, now composer and university lecturer, Andrew Chubb.

Michael and the Manning Winter Festival committee arranged for Andrew to write a composition to be premiered at the Visual and Performing Arts Awards evening.

The composition, titled 'Intro and Dance', has been written for oboe, harp and cello, and its performance is an exciting event to be celebrated and to hear.

The festival's Visual and Performing Arts Awards will be announced at the Manning Regional Art Gallery at 6pm on Friday June 20.

The evening includes a musical program, presentation of awards and supper.

Tickets, $15 for adults and $10 for students, are available from Movies, Games and More, Victoria Street, Taree, phone 6552 5699.

Then on Sunday, June 22, Michael will be part of the Myriad Ensemble, which he co-artistically formed with oboist Ben Opie, in a performance of the John Rutter 'Requiem'.

This wonderful contemporary work uses an ensemble of seven instruments, a soprano soloist and community choir and will be part of a program of beautiful music including harp and oboe solos and choral works accompanied by organ and piano.

Michael had a vision for this program for two years now, since his term as 2012 festival ambassador was coming to a close.

Since then, Michael has taken his honour as festival ambassador to new heights and has returned to Taree on many occasions to promote and serve his former home, with musical performances at the Manning Regional Art Gallery, Carols by the River, performances in Krambach, Taree churches and local studios.

This vision has taken much organisation, through many letters, emails and phone calls, by way of procuring the willingness and availability of suitable musicians.

As a result, a beautiful selection of music has been chosen to showcase local talent from the community and community minded professional musicians.

"The role of young ambassador for the Manning Winter Festival is a title I have held with great pride, enthusiasm and appreciation," said Michael.

"I am a believer and supporter of the cultural community in the Manning and alongside the festival's wonderful volunteer administrative team, have worked hard to grow a vibrant and sustainable festival.

"The MWF distinguishes itself on the national festival scene as one that attracts our country's leading professionals to join local artists in collaborative presentations.

"I am extremely grateful for the support the festival has given me.

"The 2014 program is sensational and I wish them and the inspiring incoming ambassador, Tanya Saad, great success.

The Music over the Manning concert, presented by the Manning Winter Festival, will be held in St John's Anglican Church Taree on Sunday June 22 at 2.30pm.

Tickets for this concert are $25 for adults and $20 for students, available from Movies, Games and More in Victoria Street, Taree, phone 6552 5699.