General News
1 October, 2024
Students harp away
Last month students from Dunolly, Timor and Talbot primary schools congregated in Dunolly for a special educational event that linked them to their area’s musical past.
The Harps’ a Breeze music incursion aimed to reconnect young minds with an instrument deeply rooted in Australia’s musical heritage — the harmonica.
Led by professional Australian harmonicist Chris Maunders, every student received their own diatonic harmonica, also known as a blues harp or mouth organ.
Throughout the day, Mr Maunders guided the eager students through the intricacies of harmonica playing, teaching techniques such as vibrato, trills, dynamics, and sight-reading melodies.
The day culminated in students forming their own harmonica bands and joyfully performing for each other in the schoolyard.
The harmonica holds a special place in the history of regional Victoria, once reigning as the most popular instrument across Australia a century ago.
From bustling halls in Geelong to packed venues in Ballarat, harmonica competitions drew crowds eager to witness its mastery.
In the Central Goldfields area, the harmonica resonated as a leading voice in entertainment, echoing through the generations.
Mr Maunders explained the initial purpose behind the Harps a Breeze school harmonica program, started a decade ago.
“My mission was simple — to introduce musical instruments to young learners and to promote a strong and consistent form of music education for all children,” he said.
“Now, seeing students across these schools embrace the harmonica with such enthusiasm, I realise its enduring appeal and impact on our communities.”
After having taught over 20,000 children since his program began, Mr Maunders now envisions a promising future for the harmonica in Australian schools, citing its affordability, portability, and sim-plicity as unmatched among musical instruments.
“A century later, children are rediscovering and reviving this instrument with boundless energy,” he said.
“I believe the harmonica is poised for a remarkable resurgence in Australian music, hopefully shaping the future of local musical traditions.”
The Harps’ a Breeze incursion not only brought music to young ears but also stirred a renewed appreciation for a timeless instrument.
As harmonica bands played and laughter filled the air, Dunolly resonated once again with the sound of music — a testament to the enduring magic of the harmonica in shaping community and cultural identity.