By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Belgrave Library is having a musical event on Saturday 23 November for visitors from 10.30am to 11.30am – with Hills Accord – a local group of passionate accordionists taking on the stage.
The concert promises to be an enjoyable and relaxed way to spend Saturday morning, showcasing the talents of this local group while also spreading the joy of music to the community.
Hills Accord, a group that meets regularly at Belgrave Library, was founded by Dr Lucille Kerr, a lecturer and researcher at the School of Nursing and Midwifery (specialising in cancer nursing) and accordion enthusiast.
Dr Kerr started the group after realising there was a lack of opportunities for accordion players in the area.
“I was looking for other accordionists to play with, but there wasn’t much available in the community,” she said.
“When I approached the library with the idea, they were immediately supportive and helped us get the word out. I had no idea what to expect, but it’s been a fantastic response.”
The group has since grown into a close-knit ensemble of seven accordion players, with members meeting twice a month to practice and share their love for the instrument.
“It started small, but now we’ve got a solid group that meets regularly,” Dr Kerr said.
“We’re always open to new members, it’s nice to see the group grow.”
For this Saturday’s concert, Hills Accord will perform a diverse selection of music that spans various genres.
Expect to hear traditional folk tunes with Russian and Irish influences, as well as some unexpected surprises like the iconic ‘Inspector Gadget’ theme.
“We like to keep things interesting,” she said.
“It’s not just about playing what you’d expect from an accordion – we also mix it up with some fun pop songs and quirky pieces. There’s something for everyone.”
Although the concert will be an instrumental performance, the group’s energy and enthusiasm are sure to capture the audience’s attention.
“We just want people to have a good time and enjoy the music,” she says.
The concert marks the group’s first public performance, and Dr Kerr is excited to see how the local community responds.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing people of all ages come along,” she said.
“It’s a chance to introduce younger audiences to the accordion, a unique instrument that they might not be familiar with. It’s also a great opportunity for people who have a connection to the accordion through their own cultural backgrounds.”
The accordion was once one of the most popular instruments in Australia, but its presence has waned in recent years.
Dr Kerr believes the group’s efforts at Belgrave Library are a way to keep the tradition alive.
“The accordion has such a rich history, and it’s wonderful to see people of all ages connecting with it again,” she said.
“It’s also been a great way to build community, bringing together people who share a love of music.”
While the concert this Saturday is just the beginning, Dr Kerr is hopeful that it will lead to more performances and opportunities to share the accordion with a wider audience.
“We’re excited to see where the group can go,” she said.
“We’re open to performing at different venues and connecting with other music lovers in the area.”
The Belgrave Library is not just a place to borrow books – it’s become a hub for creative activities like this one, where locals can come together to enjoy music, culture, and community.
Whether you’re an accordion enthusiast or just curious to hear something different, this free concert offers an excellent opportunity to experience something unique right on your doorstep.
Booking is not essential.
