By Ann Marie Angebrandt
A VIOLIN may sing, but a fiddle can dance.
No one knows that better than the members of the Newport Fiddle and Folk Club, who will celebrate the group’s third birthday this week.
Founder Michael Stewart said the group had grown like wildfire from two musicians at the first session to about 30 regulars – both keen musos and just plain music-lovers.
“They come along to play, sing or just enjoy the music and sense of being part of a vibrant community.”
The group meets on the fourth Friday of every month at the Newport Community Hall on Mason St.
But members also love releasing their sounds into the community.
The club initiated the Music on Mason project which livens up one of Newport’s busiest streets on special Saturday mornings with live music at outside cafes.
They have also entertained at the annual Newport Lakes Bush Dance, and have regular gigs at the Newport RSL, school fetes and open days.
The group is now working with the Hobsons Bay Community Arts Centre at the Substation to develop a major musical festival for local schools next November.
Last year the group received a grant from Folklife Victoria to start up a “bush orchestra,” which is lead by local fiddler and club member Greg O’Leary.
“’It’s been a joy to see the group develop their musical skills while learning Australian fiddle and dance tunes,” Mr O’Leary said.
The group’s first major event will be at a community bush dance at Colbinabbin, in central Victoria this November.
Anyone interested in joining Newport’s musical action can visit the club’s website at nffc.org.au to see what’s on, or give Michael Stewart a call on 9399 4466.
“’It’s a great opportunity to become part of a strong and vibrant musical community in your local area,” he said.
The club invites everyone to join in a toe-tapping session of folk music celebrating its third anniversary on Friday 24 August at 7.30pm at the Newport Community Hall.
