Step to connect

By Emma Schenk
IN AN intimate musical event, locals affected by bushfires will have the chance to reconnect with their community and be a part of something spectacular.
Onwards and Upwards – Ranges Celebrate in Song invites people aged 50 and over to come along and enjoy musical entertainment in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Canberra artists Moya Simpson and Jon Shortis will bring a wealth of community-based experience, inviting guests to take part in song-writing and share ideas about their local area.
“It will be a non-threatening environment and even people who don’t like to sing will have the change to input memories and thoughts about their community,” Project Manager of Dandenong Ranges Music Council Sue Clisby said.
The 90-minute sessions will be held at Chum Creek Primary School, 1pm on 16 August, Yarra Glen Uniting Church, 1.30pm on 18 August, and a men’s only night on 19 August at 7.30pm.
Ms Clisby said the event comes after feedback from aged-citizens who have struggled to reconnect after the tragic bushfires.
“There is lots of evidence that engagement in the arts is a great thing for the community,” Ms Clisby said.
“Music has the power to improve feelings of well-being, as well as providing enjoyment and an outlet for self-expression.”
Ms Simpson and Mr Shortis will later arrange the songs written about the community and local choirs will then perform the music at the Yarra Glen Racing Club on 24 September.
The project is a collaboration between Dandenong Ranges Music Council and Ranges Community Health and managed by Dandenong Ranges Music Council in consultation with community organisations and individuals from the areas of Chum Creek, Yarra Glen, Steels Creek and Healesville.
The music council also hopes to form music groups in the area if there is enough interest, to further unite the community.