Eisteddfod gains momentum
Wimmera Music Eisteddfod will return next year in a new venue.
The competition, which has for many years helped unearth musical talent across the region, will be in Horsham Town Hall from July 26 to 28.
Organisers cancelled the eisteddfod this year due to the unavailability of Horsham’s Wesley Performing Arts Centre, which is subject to fire-safety investigations and is closed.
Eisteddfod committee member Letitia Dowling said the plan was to bring back the event ‘bigger and better’ next year.
“We are only a small committee but we really don’t want to see the eisteddfod disappear and are keen to bring it back strongly,” she said.
“Maintaining this event is primarily about targeting children learning musical art in the region and providing them with an opportunity to show what they can do in a competitive environment.
“But it goes beyond that and we’re keen to continue to promote adult open sections.
“We must ensure the eisteddfod is inclusive for anyone keen to test themselves in a competitive environment.”
Ms Dowling said the eisteddfod would, for the time being, remain purely for musical performances.
“It will be open for piano, brass, woodwind, vocals – whatever people are learning in the region,” she said.
“Dancing might be part of future development but we’re taking only baby steps at the moment.”
Ms Dowling said the committee had also changed a traditional date from September to July to avoid an annual clash with a variety of sporting, school, social and community events.
“To regain momentum we need people to get back on board or get involved,” she said.
“We’ve already sent out emails to teachers in schools but if we’ve missed anyone we’re keen for them to get in touch.
“We’ve been exploring how other centres operate their eisteddfods and we will be setting up a website page and Facebook site.
“So we’re now challenging everyone to start planning and get their musical pieces together.”
Ms Dowling said people could find out more by emailing wimmeramusic eisteddfod@gmail.com.