The Girgarre Moosic Muster is returning with a five-day schedule of workshops, events and live music.
From Wednesday, January 8 to Sunday, January 12, event organisers have invited attendees to sing, play and learn at an affordable price.
Many hundreds of people have learned to play an instrument at the muster, which grew from a small concert atop a hay bale at the local farmers’ market in 2003.
Beginners can take workshops on guitar, mandolin, tin whistle, banjo, bodhrán, autoharp or ukulele, with offerings for more advanced players also available.
Singers can join in on the ’60s sing-along, the Jigarre Jammin’ session, Sunday gospels or sit-in on any of the welcoming programs.
Free public concerts will be held on the Friday and Saturday nights at the Girgarre sound shell, featuring a line-up of leading acoustic artists.
Home recording lessons, open mic opportunities, Indonesian gamelan music and Appalachian folk dancing are among other muster highlights this year.
Event director Jan Smith said the new year was a great time for fresh experiences, and the muster offered a supportive environment for all ages and skill levels.
“The energy, fun and friendship at our muster has to be experienced to be believed,” Ms Smtih said.
“With our basic fee at only $40 for the whole five days, with meals and camping extra, we say it’s the most affordable and relaxed acoustic event in the state.”
The muster will take place at the air-conditioned Girgarre Town Hall and surrounding buildings.
On-site camping with catering and amenities is available, and children under 12 are admitted for free.
Attendees are not required to bring their own instrument, as a collection will be available to borrow from at no cost.
Tickets for music, meals and camping, and the full program can be found at girgarre.com.au
For queries, email Jan Smith at garryandjan@bigpond.com or phone 5854 6283 or 0458 546 283.