Creswick musicians performed a unique medley of musical styles yesterday, ranging from classical chamber music and opera arias to jazz improvisations and atmospheric soundscapes, as a selection of the region’s most esteemed musicians converged for the “Musical Threads: Performers for Patients Concert” at the Creswick Woollen Mills. The community fundraising event was in support of the Creswick Health Upgrade Appeal (CHUA) which has raised over $124,000 towards the $150,000 target for the hospital and aged care buildings works.
Bob Orr, chair of the Creswick Health Upgrade Appeal Committee, stated, “‘Musical Threads’ weaves together Creswick's rich heritage, musical genius, and an undying spirit of community solidarity.” Mr Orr thanked the event organisers, performers, volunteers and guests for showing support for their local health service. Winners of the recent CHUA raffle were also drawn and announced at the event by Mr. Orr.
Guests embarked on a transformative sonic journey, with pieces like a Mozart opera aria and a Schubert Lied, jazz rhythms, and evocative cello loops, all underpinning Central Highlands Rural Health's commitment to see contemporary facilities at Creswick Health.
From Beethoven's Spring Sonata, epitomising classical elegance, to Mozart's Kegelstatt Trio, a rich blend of violin, viola, and piano, and the dynamic jazz offerings, spirited Scottish folk tunes and meditative cello soundscapes, the concert showcases a vast musical spectrum.
Local artists featured at the concert were:
• Susan Pierotti: A virtuoso on the violin, Susan's musical odyssey spans continents and genres, from the Victorian College of the Arts to the bustling streets of London, and from symphony orchestras to opera.
• Tim Drylie: Creswick's versatile tenor, Tim’s diverse solo singing experience ranges from singing with Astra Chamber Music Society, and the Hepburn Players baroque string orchestra to the Creswick Brass Band. His dual passion for the arts and community leadership ensures a performance infused with creative dedication.
• Andrew Welsh: Better known as the harpsichordist who directs the Hepburn Players baroque string orchestra, Andrew is excited to return to his first instrument, the piano, for this program of favourites from the classical and romantic periods.
• Judy Turner & Neil Adam: This dynamic duo crafts narratives that span traditional Scottish fiddles to contemporary compositions. Their illustrious careers, both individual and collaborative, paint vibrant aural landscapes. Currently, they're weaving magic in Creswick's community and spearheading impactful local projects, including CresFest.
• Adrian Deakin and Arlo Schwarz-Deakin: Representing both the wisdom of experience and the vigour of youth, this father-son jazz duet is set to be an inspired melodic journey and standout performance.
• Conrad Hamill: With his evocative cello soundscapes, Conrad’s segment is a deep dive into the immersive world of meditative music. He regularly travels to perform and record between Byron Bay, Sydney, and Melbourne and is excited to now bring this to his new home, Creswick.
Kathryn Kosloff, Fundraising Manager for Central Highlands Rural Health, stated; “The performances were outstanding! Creswick should be extremely proud of their local talent who gave their time and musical gifts to raise funds for their health service. I’d like to thank all involved in the event on behalf of Central Highlands Rural Health.”
Tim Drylie, Event Organiser, said; “With every musical note from our talented local musicians and our audience's appreciative applause, 'Musical Threads' reflected Creswick's community spirit. Here's to our town's passion for music and community health. It was such an enjoyable afternoon.
Creswick Woollen Mills, who generously hosted the concert, opened up their community fundraising offer to the general public for one day only on Wednesday 18 October. Anyone who mentions that they are supporting the Creswick Health Upgrade Appeal on this date will ensure that a donation of 10% of their purchase price is made to the campaign (which increases to 20% if there are over $4000 in sales).
General donations to the appeal are very welcome! Every donation will go directly to Creswick Health's redevelopment fund for the current upgrade to the hospital and aged care facilities.
Donations can be made at Community Bank Creswick & District (major sponsor) or online at www.givenow.com.au/creswickhealthupgradeappeal
If you'd like to give a gift via bank transfer please email Kathryn via giving@chrh.org.au
