Music as a Community building tool in rural communities

OMM began in 2012 In a tiny one shop town in the Otways with a population of 400 people Rebranding of local festival and a changing community Funding from Festivals Australia Context Lisa

The INITIAL Project Formed local project team 12 weeks info session to performance Info night -198 people Database and email list vital to maintaining group ‘We Want You’ Poster Direct contact “ we heard you have a tuba in your closet?” Louise

Music is a universal language Music is a universal language. It breaks down barriers, builds bridges and is inclusive to everyone Music has the ability to link people of all ages

bring together the community in a powerful and moving way THE OMM PERFORMANCES bring together the community in a powerful and moving way Especially those who might have felt isolated due to health problems of all sorts.

In each performance we have 160 people singing four part harmonies, percussionists and varied musicians…

Each section rehearses separately and most will only witness the combined musical result at final rehearsal or on the day of the performances.

people ENCOURAGED to step up for solos Some people have not played their instruments for a decade or more… the rediscovery of past talents…

Our projects success lies in peoples willingness to step out of their comfort zones

A space for all to participate Importance of men participating… A space for all to participate

JOINING VOICES AND FINDING YOUR OWN!

OMM now has over 400 members and has performed Our region has found its voice and has committed to being part of a musical journey that connects and celebrates the lives we live. OMM now has over 400 members and has performed 13 times 8 RURAL TOWNSHIPS INVOLVED

ONCE THE BEAT HAD BEGUN THERE WAS NO STOPPING OMM!

The Ripple Effect… … when you find something that the community can embrace ... it gets a life of its own …and there are many social, cultural and community economic benefits.

BENEFITS TO THE COMMUNITY Pride in the project, ourselves and our combined abilities. Increased community connectedness Increased employment/volunteering opportunities Increased use of community facilities Health and Wellbeing

Audience participation is part of the experience

We are always visioning the next manifesto of community spirit… We are always visioning the next manifesto of community spirit…. If you would like to join us …we want you!!! the BOM Bellarine Orchestral Manoeuvres OMM at ULURU 2020