In the heart of a small community, the Girgarre Moosic Muster has become a beacon of artistic expression and community spirit.
For over two decades, this annual event has brought together music enthusiasts from all walks of life, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere.
Girgarre Development Group Inc president Jan Smith reminisces about the Muster’s humble beginnings.
“It was just one little idea that a person I had known over the years had,” she said.
“I got him to get some music for the first market, and that is how the Moosic Muster grew.”
What began as a simple addition to a monthly produce and craft market has blossomed into a full-fledged music festival.
“I asked them all back 12 months later, just to see what they helped to create as the market had blossomed,” Jan said.
“Then that night, they said, ‘We ought to have a music festival here’.”
The Moosic Muster offers a diverse range of activities for attendees.
“It is an interactive experience for people who want to listen, want to learn, want to play, want to join in, want to sing, want to tap their foot,” Jan said.
Participants can camp on-site or stay nearby, immersing themselves in the festive atmosphere.
One of the muster's unique features is the ‘Hat Band’.
Jan describes it as a beaut thing where you put your name in a hat, your name is pulled out randomly.
“Half a dozen of you have to go out and learn to play a song together, then they perform it in front of everybody,” she said.
The inclusive nature of the event is a point of pride for organisers.
“At Moosic Muster, everyone gets the joy of performing,” Jan said.
“It's an amazing experience that pulls everyone along, from seasoned musicians to learners, the energy is always high, and the performances are always beaut.”
The 2025 Moosic Muster is on Wednesday, January 8 to Sunday, January 12 and promises to be another exciting event.
It will feature a focus on dance, including an Indonesian music and dance group performing with traditional instruments.
On Wednesday night, there is a free family friend bush dance in the Girgarre Memorial Hall.
Free concerts will be held at the sound shell in the Gargarro Botanic Gardens on Friday and Saturday nights.
On Sunday, in the Girgarre Memorial Hall, what everyone has learned at the Ukelele workshop will be strumming on the stage, with a free concert.
For more information and tickets, visit https://www.girgarre.com.au/moosic-muster
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