By Sheree Hoddinett
When a bunch of dedicated musicians first gathered in Brennan Park four years ago, no one imagined it would grow into the popular attraction it has become today.
Trisha Scott and Bill Plant initially started Bribie Jammin with the express purpose of bringing music into the community and the number of players and listeners have continued to grow. It all began with a free festival based in and around Brennan Park featuring guided sessions, workshops, a bush dance courtesy of the Celtic Minstrels, a concert and lots of jam sessions.
“The following Wednesday the die-hard musicians met at Brennan Park again to play a few tunes and it has been a regular Wednesday event ever since,” Bill explains.
“Everyone is welcome to come along to listen or join in to the music, 3-5pm (summer 4-6pm). We get up to 20 musicians and as many spectators who often sing along as the songs are easy to follow and everyone knows all the words.
“As well as our regular sessions, we have continued our annual free festival. Due to popular demand, we will have a second festival this year on November 7, 8 and 9.”
At the upcoming Bribie Jammin event, the first two days (November 7 and 8) will have jam sessions and workshops at Brennan Park. On the third day (November 9), all the musical action will be happening at the Bongaree Bowls Club, where from 3pm-11.30pm there will be guided sessions, workshops, open mic and a grand concert in the evening. Sessions will feature song charts on a screen to make it easy for participants to play along.
It seems music was always meant to be a part of Trisha and Bill’s lives, with both lucky enough to grow up in musical families. They started to play from an early age and have now been playing music for nearly 40 years and teaching music for 30 years. They see music as an important part of their lives and have worked over the years to bring people and music together by performing, teaching and running group workshops and classes.
“We have started many community music groups in schools, at festivals, regional libraries and aged care facilities,” Bill said. “Mostly, we volunteer the running of these projects, but sometimes have government support. The result has been the establishment of music groups many of who meet regularly and have gone on to perform at community events and to entertain at aged care facilities.”
Knowing the connections they are making with others in the community through music is a big part of what spurs Bill and Trisha on. They play all types of music on a range of instruments and have even written and published two books together.
“Often a person will tell us that learning to play an instrument has helped them deal with depression or simply made their lives better,” Bill said. “A few times we have had the wonderful experience of making a real connection with some dementia sufferers.”
If jamming along with other musicians or just listening to some tunes is on your radar, Bribie Jammin might be perfect for you. Their Wednesday gathering is very friendly and supportive of anyone new looking to join in. Some tuition is also available to get people started.
For further information follow Bribie Jammin on Facebook or contact Bill on 0408 336 648.
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