Music lovers ages attended the open air event in the Waring Gardens to enjoy what South West Music interim director Kate Butler described as a ‘‘warm welcome back to music in Deni’’.
‘‘2020 was challenging, and maybe we aren’t quite done (with COVID-19) yet, but I think we have a better idea of how things will evolve in 2021,’’ she said.
‘‘We bring the music and you bring the good vibes.
‘‘Let’s continue these with warm smiles, from 1.5 metres apart, doing that elbow thing and taking care of each other as we do so well in small towns.’’
Local musicians Georgina Mildren, Zara Lindeman and Anna Bowie each delivered a 30 minute performance to the crowd of about 80 people, who were enthralled by the talents on show.
Georgina kicked off the celebrations with alternative pop covers, and twangy guitar, stunning the crowd with her fantastic voice.
Zara, who has joined the SWM team as a tutor this year, continued the good times with a more old-fashioned set, which included classics like Louis Armstrong’s ‘Summertime’.
Anna’s focus was on Australian music including rousing renditions of Crowded House favourites, and a heartfelt cover of ‘Over the Rainbow’ to finish.
The three musicians came together for a surprise encore, singing the classic ‘Changes’ by Fleetwood Mac.
With additional funding this year, SWM will deliver a few extra concerts over and above its traditional Live Music Program format.
The program continues on March 12 with two performances in the region.
Benny Walker will perform in Hillston on March 12, while rap artist J-Milla will perform at Deniliquin High School.
The music continues with a concert for the youngest music fans, with Professor Silly performing in the Waring Gardens on April 1.
The Swing on the Grass concert will be held at the Deniliquin Golf Club on April 17 and will feature Shuffle Club.
On May 23 the Ensemble Offspring — described as “virtuosic and curious instrumentalists” — will come to the region and from June 18 to June 20 Celtic rock group The Barley Shakes will tour the district with their sound.
Free lunchtime classics, featuring classical artists, will take place at the South West Conservatorium on July 23 and September 24.
Finally, the ears of Deniliquin will be treated to African gospel music from the St Paul’s Lutheran Church Choir on August 28, in what is expected to be a spectacular live event.
Live Music subscriptions are available at South West Music.