Peruquois Frances’s tips will have you singing from your belly.
By Casey Neill
CELEBRATIONS to mark 100 years of women’s suffrage will culminate in a grand finale at Burrinja this Saturday (8 November).
The Dandenong Ranges Music Council (DRMC) Strong Women of the Hills event will kick off with a free workshop featuring Peru the Singing Woman (Peruquois Frances) at 11am.
The Melbourne-based singer and chantress will teach participants to sing from their belly.
Celebrations will hit full swing when Ranges Young Strings Orchestra members unveil their first original composition in Burrinja Café just before 2pm.
The musicians developed the piece over three intensive sessions with Karen Kyriakou from Melbourne group Kaz Band.
Information and images depicting life for women in the hills 100 years ago inspired the group.
They also contrasted the freedom in Australia today with the continuing struggle women in other nations face.
Local acrobatic troupe Circus Folk will accompany the three-part composition.
Sing Australia Choir, DRMC Orchestra and Sing Like a Bloke Chorus are among dozens set to perform on the day.
The finale will begin at Burrinja Cafe, 351 Glenfern Road, Upwey, at 1pm.
Tickets are $8 or $5, including afternoon tea, and are available by calling DRMC on 9754 6566.
