The Bridgewater Celebrates Music event was held at Brighton Civic Centre in October, giving children and their families the opportunity to get involved in a range of music experiences. There were mini performances from various musicians, followed by interactive sessions where the children could try different percussion instruments, including bongos and taiko drums.

Participants listened to DJs mixing and then got to use real DJ equipment thanks to Hobart DJs 0GP and Damien Goundrie. Musicians such as Ra Bellatrix, KARAI, Charlotte Lucretia, Rochelle and Ally Oliver got the children dancing, singing and trying out the instruments.

A special performance from Taiko Drum Hobart was followed by a mini-interactive workshop where participants tried their hand at these ancient drums. Another highlight was a performance from Dancing Divas, sharing modern Indian dance routines.

Jodi The Face Painting Lady glammed up the children’s faces, and there was also an instrument making corner where participants made mini shakers, jingle sticks and bells and dancing wands. Tash from Aboriginal Education led the children in a clap stick making activity. A light lunch of fruit platters and yummy sandwiches was provided by local café Bean to Brew.

This fun-packed music event was made possible with funding from Communities for Children – Southeast Tasmania, for musicians, resources and food; Brighton Council for the provision of the Civic Centre for free; Uniting Vic Tas for staffing and resources; Modern Musician Hire for provision of all the tech equipment and Stuart Vanderplank for operating the system during the day; and Damien Goundrie and Ollie for planning, preparation and delivery of the event.