By Tyler Wright
Families in the Dandenong Ranges gathered this month to celebrate the musical ability of the township at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council (DRMC) in Upwey.
The Ranges Young Strings, directed by Rosie Burns, were joined by students of local music teachers Claire Ransome and Sarah Strachan to bring the community together.
This comes as the DRMC begins to utilise and share their new facilities with the public.
“This is the first time I’ve had a live concert in a proper music facility, not outside or online, for the first time in about two years since Covid began; so it was a lovely concert,” Healesville-based violin teacher Claire Ransome said.
A total of 25 performers ranged from the ages of six through to older adults took to the stage on 14 May; breaking down the barriers of age to celebrate music.
“It’s something they can do which gives allows them to develop confidence and skills and develop sensitivity as people and be able to express themselves and to share that music with others – not just in performing, but also in playing together with other people – that is such a wonderful tool for building community, building harmony between people and also connecting with people who you might not see in your friendships circle or in your immediate family and friends,” Claire said.
“That’s a really important part of being a part of a community, feeling like you have something you can offer and share with others,” she said.
The Dandenong Ranges Music Council holds various community programs and is home to set ensembles, singing groups, orchestras and bands.
The Star Mail recently spoke to members for National Volunteer Week which ended on 22 May.
“We’re now in the process of trying to wind up a lot of those projects and start up again with the orchestra and start up rehearsals and concerts with the various groups and ensembles…they all run on volunteers, so we’re always looking for people to help,” volunteer coordinator and Dandenong Ranges local Johanna Selleck said.
DRMC will offer masterclasses and jam sessions in September as part of their Spring Sessions. To learn more, send your details to drmc@drmc.org.au.
