Girgarre Moosic Muster strikes a chord

“The weekend has been a huge success,” Mrs Kidd said.

“We are so very thankful for the musical community that has grown around Girgarre.”

The event, held between January 10 and 14, saw people from all over Victoria and further attending the annual event.

Participants tried their hand at workshops, while others listened to the artists performing at the Girgarre Soundshell.

The muster has become an iconic event for experienced and novice musicians, with workshops helping inexperienced players find their footing in the music world.

“It’s about joining in. That’s where the joy is,” Girgarre Moosic Muster director Jan Smith said.

Workshops included Appalachian folk dancing, learning how to play the guitar using barre chords, and songwriting, to name a few.

The muster created a fun time for families of all ages and experiences in the music world.

“The muster seems to strike a chord with everyone,” Mrs Smith said.

On Saturday and Sunday night, artists like Chris Newman, Indi Gilmore, Beyond the C, Imogen Anderson, Drongo and the Crow, Woodville, and Backwater took to the stage to show what the workshops helped to create.

Concert goers danced the night away and sang along with some of the artists.

“Despite our rough start with the bad weather for the early arrivals, contingency plans worked a dream,” Mrs Kidd said.

“Thanks to our early camper leader team for doing the on-ground logistics.

“When things dried out, we returned to what we were used to.”

The muster brought many to Girgarre from all different places, with some coming from as far as England.

“I love it,” Shayna Street said.

“It’s the atmosphere.”

On Sunday, January 14, a market showcased the many wonders Girgarre has to offer, along with themed concerts – gospel, ukulele, original songs and visiting bands.

“There were happy people everywhere,” Mrs Smith said.

The workshops were fun and easy, while some helped get musicians out of their comfort zone.

“We design our program to include everyone, from the novice to the highly experienced. It’s a time to try something new, listen to great performers, and get up on stage yourself if you want to,” Mrs Smith said.

“Girgarre township may be small in size, but it has a huge heart and an even bigger store of musical energy.”

“Volunteers keep the muster running like clockwork; without them, we would be nothing,” Mrs Kidd said.

“We are so very thankful for the musical community that has grown around Girgarre.”