Carols Night

What a lovely way to end our program of events for the year! With a choir of 45, an orchestra of 35 and well over 200 in the audience, there was not a spare seat in the house. And what a beautiful sound with everyone singing together! The orchestra and choir led us in a string of old favourite carols, interspersed with solo performances from local musicians. The lighting, sound and staging equipment at The Substation really helped to make it a professional quality evening.



Thanks to all the performers and helpers who made the evening such a success, and to our sponsors:

• Hobsons Bay City Council
• Jas H. Stephens Real Estate
• The Substation
• Outlets Neighbourhood House
• Newport Traders Association
• 2nd Newport Scouts

Final Friday Session for 2010

The final folk club session for 2010 was the NFFC at its best - a wide range of styles and offerings, the spirit of community that is more talked about then realised, and a couple of very fond farewells.

The music - Simon Leverton got things started with 'Do re me' the dust bowl song of Woodie Guthrie telling of the need for money and of life's reversals of fortune - most apt. This kicked of a whole series of singer / guitarists including some original material which was a lovely relaxing way to start the night. Then Maureen, who has been going to Alison's uke class, played her first solo performance (Sunshine) and got the whole crowd (of over 55 people) involved and active in creating this lovely mood for the night - gentle, friendly and calming, so that the worries of the world faded into the distant background. What a lovely way to begin you solo career Maureen!

More songs, and poems, a few announcements, and then before the break the folk club paid tribute to Rob Durbridge for his beautiful contributions to the folk club in song, and we were able to wish Rob and Wendy all the very best for their permanent move to the country (Landsborough). Rob and his banjo have introduced us to many songs over the years, but it was his version of 'Changi Banjo' that has always brought the audiences to a standstill, and more than once drew a tear. It was lovely that Rob played this song for us - just beautiful. After the break Rob assembled the Barber SHop Chorus who all happened to be in the right place at the right time, for one final song before Rob and Wendy drove into the darkness of the night. 9 male voices, 4 parts, and a beautiful arrangement is impressive at any time, but when unexpected its power was quite dramatic. Bravo to Danny and the men! Rob and Wendy will be back from time to time and so it was not an ending, but an opportunity to recognise their contribution and to realise that it is lovely to be part of a group with such talent. All the best Wendy and Rob for your country life and we look forward to seeing you regularly, distance notwithstanding.

After that? More songs, some bush orchestra tunes (thanks Alistair and Catherine) and then another tribute of sorts. Greg O'Leary and Helen are heading off to New Zealand to cycle for 6 weeks and so we were able to wish them all the very best through song (Daisy, Show me the way to go home, Maori farewell) and poem from Gail, and even a joke from Steve. All the very best to you Helen and Greg - we wish you a fantastic trip (may there be more hills going down than up, may the wind be at your behind etc) and we look forward to seeing you back in Newport in the new year.

One final observation - for those interested in such things. There was about 50 people at the session, and we finished as always at 11pm. However when we did finish, people just sat - as if soaking up the warmth of the evening, and the fellowship that was so evident in the room. There are only 10 of these sessions for the year, and Friday night provided a very satisfying end to 2010. See what happens next year!

Newport Bush Orchestra Nov 8th and Nov 15th

Nov 15th

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce Stanbury, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Greg O'L, Helen C, Julie R, Kathryn T, Marilla H, Mira M, Rhonwyn C, Wendy L.

This evening we reviewed the verse section of the old show tune 'Yip I Addy I Ay' and learnt 'Jessica's Mountain'.

Nov 8th

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce Stanbury, Bruce W, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Greg O'L, Helen C, Julie R, Kathryn T, Mira M, Wendy L.

Tonight we ran through the verse section of 'Yip I Addy I Ay' again. It's starting to sink in!

We also ran a marathon non-stop session of as many tunes as we could remember. It ran for about 40 minutes!! Finger were pretty sore by the end, but it was great fun to see how long we could go for just calling out tunes.

Bush Orchestra

The Bush Orchestra is heading down to the Williamstown Life Savings Club on Cup Day for the Life Saving Clubs annual Cup Day - the Bush Orchestra struck up the tunes after the cup was run and won, and even got a few of the swimmers up and dancing. Another top day of music (and more practice ). Well done Greg, Bruce and All - a very busy program of music and practice to finish off the year.

Newport Bush Orchestra October 25 and Nov 01

Nov 01

Present: Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce Stanbury, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Greg O'L, Helen C, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Leonie K, Mira M, Rhonwyn C, Wendy L.

This evening we learnt the verse section of the old show tune 'Yip I Addy I Ay' and ran through most of the Victorian tunes we know.

Bruce

October 25

Present: Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce Stanbury, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Greg O'L, Helen C, Helen H, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Mira M, Wendy L, Zion A and the girls.

Bruce

The Folk Club, Celebrations, Batons, The Cup and More

Friday October 30th - auspicious enough date for a music session in Newport, though indeed not just music. Lots of familiar faces and plenty of new ones, guitars, fiddles, bass, lap steel guitar, mandolins, tin whistle and few tapping feet and a baton ............

Celebrations? Lovely that the October session coincided with Greg O'Leary's birthday (numbers less important when over 50) and we all sang and cheered to wish him well for another grand year of music making in the Newport Area. Greg's contribution to the cultural life of Newport has been magnificent and we are very lucky to have him as a member of the folk club. Three Cheers!

Baton? It is only recently that the Newport Bush Orchestra has mused that sometimes, it would be useful to have a conductor. Catherine Tomkins leapt at the apparent void (or into?) and declared that this was a role that she would like to take on. So on Friday night the folk club presented her with a fully professional conductor's baton and asked that she demonstrate her newfound skills. Catherine was slightly embarrassed at first, but after 'Happy Birthday' had been played with such style, she was ready to take on a few NBO tunes, providing clear directions re tempo, intonation to all and sundry (but particularly to Greg O). Well done Catherine - you have always conducted yourself with such enthusiasm for the music, we look forward to hearing you lead the NBO from time to time.

While we are on the baton, wiki dates the use of the baton back to the 16th Century by nuns in San Vito Lo Capo but it really became fashionable after Jean-Baptiste Lully was conducting 'a Te Deum' on 8th January 1687. He was beating time with a long staff (as was the custom) and hit his toe. The toe developed an abscess ( which he foolishly didn't treat), then it became gangrenous (which he refused to have amputated) and so he died just 2 month later on March 22. The baton was then seen as a much safer option!

The Cup? Melbourne Cup season brought out some equine poems from Dave and Jackie, with Jackie and props performing her 'Phar Lap the Wonder Horse'. We were swept up with the ascent and came back down to earth with the sad descent of our most famous horse. Bravo Jackie!

WHat else? Lots of good music, poetry, new connections a cup of tea and a biscuit with Terry as always in charge of the kitchen. A lovely evening of people forming a community around music. See you at the end of November for the final session of the year.

Newport Bush Orchestra October 18

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce Stanbury, Bruce W, Catherine D, Christine H, Christina P, Greg O'L, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Lyn S, Mira M, Wendy L, Zion A and the girls.

Tonight we ran though 'Girl on the Hill' and reviewed 'Hilarity'.

Bruce

Second Newport Open Stage a smash hit

Round two for our monthly Newport Open Stage was an even better night, with great performances, much variety, sad songs, much laughter, tall stories, and mood lighting and candles! With food and drink abounding, is there a better way to spend a Friday evening? No, I think not!

So, as evidence, here are some photos for your edification. And if you haven't been yet, what on earth are you waiting for? Climate change is coming so don't wait around, you might as well enjoy yourself



!

Bush Orchestra Monday 11/10/10

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce Stanbury, Bruce W, Bryan Davison, Catherine D, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Fiona C, Greg O'L, Helen C, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Leonie K, Lyn S, Nira M, Wendy L

Tonight we ran though thee tunes that we will be doing at the upcoming Seaworks gig. Greg also reintroduced us to a tune many of us had learnt ages ago, but hadn't played for ages; Thomas Collins Scottische.

Bruce

Music on Mason 16 October

Somebody 'up there' must love music...despite dire forecasts and threatening clouds there was more sunshine than rain between 10am and 1pm as musicians from all over Newport gathered at Paine Reserve for another Music on Mason.



Sister Dahl kicked off with a bracket of old favourite tunes, with Michael filling in on guitar at a moment's notice...that's why they were calling out the key before each song!

Then it was Greg H and Steve, who have forged a wonderful musical partnership, with Steve weaving the bass lines around Greg's voice and guitar...great listening!

The Tin Pan Cowboys followed and many a "yee-hah" was heard as they galloped through a bracket of country favourites, including the classic Rawhide.

Then it was the kids' turn. The Newport Lakes Primary School band filled the stage to overflowing and they are sounding great! The Batman theme was particularly memorable.

Finally the musos from the Theatre Research Institute launched into a tango number which then turned into an extended jam session with kids, parents and everybody else joining in.

Wonderful to hear musicians from several generations jamming together in the park, and we look forward to those young musicians keeping live, local music going in Newport into the future!

Newport Bush Orchestra at Seaworks - Rotary Art Show

The Bush Orchestra provided the sort of rollicking good time music that perfectly matched the mood and setting of the Gala Opening of the Rotary Art Show. This has become an annual gig for the NBO and they can be seen in full flight below - tunes, join in songs (Heave Away - Haul Away) and even a couple of dances. 16 members of the NBO dressed the part and had a heck of a good time - heavy rain on the roof of the tin shed notwithstanding. While the players wondered about the acoustics, a number of the guests to the Art Show came up afterwards and said how they loved the music and it made it such a successful evening - lively and spirited, and lots of red dots on the paintings a.nd other art work. Well done to Greg and Bruce and the team.

The Bush Orchestra at La Trobe's Cottage

On Sunday 3rd of October, members of the Bush Orchestra provided music for the annual historical reenactment 'the return of Governor La Trobe to his cottage'.

This is organised by an associate group of the National Trust - Friends of La Trobe's Cottage (http://www.foltc.latrobesociety.org.au/events.html). The event was lovely, the weather and surroundings beautiful and the company fine! We even got Governor La Trobe to pose with the Bush Orchestra - talk about living history! Here is an excerpt from a letter of thanks from the Chair of the Friends of La Trobe's Cottage: 'Thanks again so much for your enthusiastic participation in our event today. You all looked terrific and your music was beautifully played, and I imagine, carefully selected – you led it all beautifully. It added so much to the whole day.'

Newport Bush Orchestra October 4

Present: Alasdair McC, Bruce Stanbury, Bruce W, Bryan Davison, Catherine D, Christine H, Christina P, Fiona Chircop, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Leonie K, Lyn S, Wendy L, Gyrah A, Czarlene A, Zion A, Zymone A, Czarina A, Athaliah A.

Well, Term 4 got off to a very pleasant start as we basked in the glow of a fun gig for the La Trobe's Cottage 176th anniversary on Sunday arvo. Well done to all players. We had a great time and the organisers were very pleased.

After our glow subsided we got down to work polishing up 'Whisky Before Breakfast' and reviewing a number of tunes from last term.

Bruce

Club Night Sep 2010

What an amazing night! As the Serbian dance group and the Swedish band entered the hall we knew it was going to be a big night, but even more surprises were in store. After a couple of fiddle tunes to get things going the Serbian dancers from the cultural group K.U.D. Kolo took the floor and wowed us with their beautiful and energetic traditional Serbian dances. They performed the Vranje (a dance from southern Serbia that shows the Turkish influence from the days of the Ottoman Empire occupation) and the Shopske (a tradional shepherds' dance, also from the southern region of Serbia).

It was a hard act to follow but Simon's always up for a challenge and got us all singing along with Uncle Joe's Mint Balls - obviously well-known to the Brits in the audience, Danny and Ted knew the words to every verse!

The Red Herrings gave us a couple of delightful Swedish tunes, enlivened as always by Björn's Nyckelharpa or keyed fiddle, an ancient and wonderful instrument, rather like a violin with a small keyboard grafted onto its neck.

Dave's repertoire of poems and stories is getting more and more impressive, and extending well beyond the Australian bush poetry he's best known for. This month it was The Shooting of Dan McGrew by Canadian poet Robert Service, with a bit of audience participation just for fun.

There were old favourites a-plenty with Alison and an impromptu ukulele ensemble performing the Carter Family classic Keep on the Sunny Side and a bracket of dance tunes from members of the Bush Orchestra. And Greg J. performed a terrific Bob Dylan song we hadn't heard for ages; Brand New Leopard-Skin Pillbox Hat.

Newcomers Sarah and Brendan made an impressive NFFC debut with a virtuoso performance of Brahms' famous Hungarian Dance No. 5. The bar just got raised a bit for classical music at the NFFC!

Young Isaac has been coming along to the Folk Club nights since the very beginning (and just about doubled his height over that time too!) and has had a go at playing several instruments, but tonight he showed us the result of his latest project - a shiny new hand-made mandolin! He and Bruce made it from a kit over several months and it looks and sounds fantastic. Well done Isaac, maybe Bruce will give you a few lessons in how to play it now...

There was so much more but I was too busy singing along and having a good time to make notes...

Finally Alisdair gave us a wonderful end to the evening, with his a cappella rendition of My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose. It only remained for Alan to wind us up as usual with The Parting Glass. An outstanding night of music and entertainment, and we're looking forward already to the Open Stage night on 8 October, see calendar for details.

Newport Open Stage successful debut

The Newport Fiddle and Folk Club has launched a number of initiatives over the last few years and on Friday 10th September launched its latest musical venture, the Newport Open Stage.

The idea of the Open Stage came from the success of the regular monthly club gathering. As the numbers grew, it became increasingly difficult to ensure that all needs were met. From fiddle tunes, to collective singing and individual performances, there was not enough time to do it all. We started realising there was a need for a performance space where people could share their own songs and do individual performances. After discussing the idea with the folk club committee, Greg Jenkins and Simon Kerr developed the idea of using the club's regular meeting space on the second Friday of every month. Thus, Newport Open Stage was born.

On this first night about 30 people turned up at the usual venue of 15 Mason St Newport, with about 15 people performing, showcasing original songs, poems and storytelling. Everyone had a fabulous time and enjoyed the atmosphere and chance to listen to some wonderful performers.

It is an acoustic event (so technically not an open 'Mic'), performers use the stage, which is tastefully lit with some well placed spot lights. We made it a cabaret style with everyone sitting around tables (the candles will be there next time!) and because it was a BYO affair, everyone bought drink and food of their choosing. Tea and coffee was available at the break.

So, if you want a chance to have a decent performing space, then you are welcome to come on down on the second Friday of every month. Doors open at 7.30pm and the music starts at 8pm sharp. If you wish to perform it is first in first served, so come early to get your name on the list. We aim for 12 spots of 12mins (max 3 songs) each. Oh, and we abide by the courtesy principle: if you play, please stay; we are each other's audience!

If you don't want to perform, but love live music, poetry and storytelling, then grab some friends and come on down. And get involved with the Newport Open Stage.

Here are some random shots from the evening







If you want any more info email Simon (simon@simonkerrmusic.net) or Greg (gjenkins1@hotmail.com)

Newport Bush Orchestra September 06

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce S, Bruce W, Bryan D, Catherine D, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Fiona C, Greg O'L, Helen H, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Leonie K, Lyn S, Marilla H, Michael dV, Rhonwyn C, Mira M, Wendy L, and guest Patrick Walsh.

Tonight we madly scrambled through most tunes we know in preparation for our gig this coming Thursday (09/09/10) at Breizoz in Williamstown

At the end of the run through, Greg O thought it might be fun to teach the exhausted crew a new tune. Being an adventurous bunch, we thought what the heck and launched into one of the many versions of 'Stan Treacy's' in the key of D.

We also had Patrick Walsh join us for the evening. He played some lovely tunes on his fiddle and button accordion.

A great time was had by all.

How Many People To Fill a Hall?

Last Friday night's music session was a lovely evening with lots of highlights, plenty of people, some new faces and a big chocolate cake. Some years back we thought the hall would be full to the brim with 40 people, but somehow almost 50 folk were able to comfortably fit in the Hall and take their part in the evening. There was original poetry and banjo, familiar tunes from the Bush Orchestra, a set of Irish tunes by Greg and Helen, a variety of songs including one by Leonie which was the product of the NFFC songwriting group (well done Leonie - it was a beauty, accompanied as it, and you, were by Uncle Bruce) and there was even an appearance by Elvis himself. The Newport Choir, under the direction of Alan Davies, came and performed a number of songs from their repertoire and their sound certainly filled the space and brought the spirit of Newport well and truly alive. As advertised the Newport Gypsy Band struck up some tunes so that Tinka was able to lead a group of dancers who quickly learned the steps of 2 circle dances (the Miserlou and Nigun Atuk). If people come for variety then it was there in spades at this session, all the way till 11pm when Alan lead the Parting Glass. Good value for $5 ($3 for members) and all left filled with music and lightness. For next month..........?

Newport Bush Orchestra August 30

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce S, Bruce W, Bryan D, Catherine D, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Fiona C, Greg O'L, Helen H, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Leonie K, Lyn S, Marilla H, Mira M, Simon D, Wendy L.

Tonight we welcomed new member Bryan and promptly threw him in the deep end working on a quick review of a bunch of tunes he'd never heard before! He rose to the occasion and after a quick cup of tea to steady his nerves was strumming away with the rest of the rhythm section. Well done Bryan!

After the tea break we reviewed the 'Rodoni' tunes, 'The Mill Belongs to Sandy', and 'Hilarity'. Then with 15 minutes to go Greg decided to teach us all 'Edgar Lacey's Set Tune' in D. It must have been one of those 'all rise to the occasion' kind of evenings as we seemed to latch onto the tune reasonably quickly. Pats on the back all round.

Newport Bush Orchestra August 23

Present: Alasdair McC, Bruce S, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Greg O'L, Helen H, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Mira M, Simon D, Wendy L.

Tonight we worked on 'The Mill Belongs to Sandy'. We had fun running through the tune in the keys of D, A, G and just for kicks...B flat (in which Alasdair starred on his whistle)!

Newport Bush Orchestra August 16

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce S, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Fiona C, Greg O'L, Helen H, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Mira M, Olivia V, Wendy L.

Tonight we learnt part three of 'Hilarity'. After the break we reviewed 'Yip I Addy I Ay', 'Wa La Wap A Ping', Le A Le A La', 'Father Last September Piggle Noir', and 'Watermelon Vine'. Greg also ran us through 'Me Smoky Smoky' in the keys of D, G and A.

Newport Bush Orchestra August 9

Present August 9:

Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Fiona C, Greg O'L, Helen H, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Leonie K, Michael DV, Mira M, Michael S, Olivia V, Simon D

Tonight we learnt the first two sections of a three part tune titled 'Hilarity'. We then reviewed Yip I Addy I Ay', 'Wa La Wap A Ping', Le A Le A La', 'Father Last September Piggle Noir', 'Watermelon Vine', 'Edgar Lacey's Set Tune', 'Stan Treacey's Mazurka' and 'The Old Schoolmaster'. Greg also gave us a small taste of a tune we'll be learning in the near future 'Me Smokey Smokey'.

Bruce W

Folk Club Night - July 30

Another lovely night of music making at the Newport Hall - lots of people (40+) with the usual mix of tunes, songs and lovely fellowship that music and the people create. Towards the end of the night a group of musicians started playing tunes from the Gypsy Collection and very quickly there was a gypsy orchestra of 12 players and a group of people who were moved by the rhythms to get up and dance. Its a small hall, and it only took a couple of brave souls to start the ball rolling - dancing, clapping, and a few Oi, Oi, Oi's. There is some planning underway to get the dancing up as an integral part of the monthly sessions - sheet music distributed, dance steps to be learned, and wild rhythms to be tamed. What a fine idea - the folk club is 'moving forward' into dance!

Newport Bush Orchestra August 02

Present: Alasdair McC, Annette J, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Greg O'L, Helen H, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry D, Leonie K, Lyn S, Mira M, Michael S, Olivia V, Simon D, Wendy L, Gyrah A, Czarlene A, Zion A, Zymone A, Czarina A, Athaliah A.

Tonight we reviewed the tunes we've been learning over the past few weeks, including 'Yip I Addy I Ay', 'Wa La Wap A Ping', Le A Le A La', 'Father Last September Piggle Noir', 'Watermelon Vine', 'Edgar Lacey's Set Tune', and 'Stan Treacey's Mazurka. We then then ran through the Gervsoni Waltzes.

We also had a visit from two gentlemen (apologies gents, I neglected to jot down your names) from a local improvisational theatre group with a view to possible collaboration in the future.

Bruce W

Pics from the Festival

Gradually we will get more pics from the festival up on the blog. Here is a selection of photos that were taken by Kel Griffin (www.lookingatyouphotography.com). Kel heard about the festival and was interested to do a study of the fiddlers. These images give a sense of the concentration and enjoyment of the players who performed at the festival. Many thanks for your time Kel - we love your photos!
More Festival photos.

Newport Bush Orchestra July 26 - A Finely Tuned Group Indeed

Driving past Outlets on Monday night with the radio down one is always drawn by the Sirens' call of the Newport Bush Orchestra - sweet music and toe tapping tunes. The pictures tell the story - 20 people playing as one, bringing the history of Australia's musical past to life, and enjoy the pleasure of making music. Not much wonder they are ready to set off to the National next year and other festivals and events besides. This sort of thing needs to be shared around, and by the sounds of their calander of engagements it will be: Maldon Folk Festival, the Altona Rotary Art Show, the Polly Woodside are just a couple of the places where the NBO has been asked to bring their special brand of joy in the form of Australian colonial music. This is what Julia means by going forward .................... maybe they'll get a gig at the election Party!

Present: Alasdair Mc C, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Greg O'L, Helen H, Julie R, Kathryn T, Kerry, Michael D'V, Mira M, Olivia V, Simon D, Wendy L.

Tunes: Yip I Addy I Ay, Wa La Wap A Ping, Le A Le A La, Father Last September Piggle Noir, Watermelon Vine.

July 26 2010 NBO pics 2

New Building in Paine Reserve

Hobsons Bay City Council is planning a new "Youth, Library and Seniors Facility" in Paine Reserve Newport. The existing Seniors Centre and Library will be demolished to make way for a new 2-storey building and the Community Hall building will be refurbished and reconfigured.

This will mean changes for the NFFC as 2 facilities we currently use (the Newport Community Hall and the Seniors Centre hall) will no longer exist. Plans for the new building include 2 halls.

Council has published concept plans on its website and is inviting public comment and suggestions until 23 August.

Newport Bush Orchestra 19/07/10

Present: Alasdair, Bruce W, Catherine D, Chris K, Christine H, Christina P, Dave I, Greg O'L, Helen H, Julie R, Kerry, Leonie K, Lyn S, Mira M, Simon D, Wendy L, Gyrah A, Czarlene A, Zion A, Zymone A, Czarina A, Athaliah A.

We looked at an old music hall tune called 'Yip I Addy I Ay' and then reviewed the following tunes: Stan Treacy's Mazurka, Sally Sloane's Mazurka, Old Schoolmaster, Uncle Alfies tap and God Bless You and Bugger Me. A very productive evening.

Bruce W

Newport Bush Orchestra - Term 3 has Begun!

Indeed it has!

Present: Present: Greg O, Chris K, Bruce W, Wendy L, Simon D, Christina, Alasdair, Kathryn T, Helen, Annette J, Julie, Helen H, Catherine, Christine H, Helen, Mira, Fiona, Lynne, Dave, Michael DV, and Kerry.

We looked at a wonderful new tune: Stan Tracey's Mazurka in G.

After the break we discussed upcoming gigs which include: Breizoz in September, Governor La Trobe's Cottage gig in October, a gig at the Seaworks Art Show and the possibility of applying for both the National Folk Festival and Maldon Folk Festival.

We also discussed the notion of focusing more on Australian, and even Victorian tunes over the next 6 months.

All in all - a great night with lots of positive input from members.

Bruce W

Fantastic Festival!

This year's Festival was a ripper. Every event was well attended, the weather was kind to us and the range of performers was extraordinary. From yodellers to classical, from kids storytelling to life drawing, from tales of the Scottish Jacobite Rebellions to a Finnish choir, the third Newport Folk Festival had it all.

(Were you there? Want to give some feedback? Leave a comment below.)

Friday Night Slideshow
(Click on photo for a larger version)



Saturday Slideshow

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Sunday Slideshow

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Lester dancing at the Substation Market

(Click on photo for Youtube video)

Festival Time is Here

Our third annual festival opens tonight at Newport Bowling Club, kicking off at 6:30.

Some final rehearsals were happening last night at the Substation...I hope everyone else is getting as excited as I am!

Images from Kilmore Celtic Festival

It might have been cold up at Kilmore on the weekend (as it always is) but the celtic music was hot and strong. Two of the headline acts at Kilmore (both coming down to Newport next weekend) were Braemar and Red Cat.

Here they are pictured in full flight for our festival next weekend. Red Cat, with Kerry Dawson, Rob Carrol and Mike Daley are a treat with their range of songs and beautiful harmonies, and Eddie and Marc, of Braemar, supported by Geoff on Pipes and Colin McLeod on fiddler finished the festival with all the passion and vocal strength that they are renowned for.

Pictured centre are friends Bill and Tot, of Warnambool with their great mates Marcia and John from Doncaster. They came to Kilmore specifically to see Braemar, and were very disappointed that prior commitments mean they can't come to Newport next week. However they put the first weekend in July in their diaries for 2010 and have got on to the mailing list to hear about all the good music that is happening down this way. Welcome to our website folks and we look forward to seeing you sometime soon.

The Music Continues ../...

What's This Chris?

Friday morning in Newport and Chris and friends are up playing the Bush Orchestra tunes on Newport Station - at 7.30 in the morning! It just so happened that there was a cameraman who said he was from abc or something like that and asked if he could film , record - and maybe even put it on the news. That was all the encouragement these guys needed - and so they had the commuters tapping their feet, school kids throwing coins in the fiddle case, and lots and lots of smiles. Music is certainly the tonic that is needed on a grey day, or any day. Maybe this will be a regular feature of travel in the area.

Watch abc news tonight at 7pm and see what happens....