On Thursday 11 April, the electric Liam Cooper brought his show, King of the Keys, to the Shoalhaven Performing Arts Centre. The interactive show gave the audience the chance to vote for who they thought was the King of the Keys. Read on to hear who won!Liam’s infectious energy had the audience singing and dancing to old favourites. Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Freddy Mercury, Ray Charles and many more. With over 40 songs in the set, the band was as tight as Liam’s jeans. My personal favourite was Liam’s rendition of Isn’t She Lovely, which he dedicated to his little fur baby, Millie. His powerful and nuanced vocals helped with flawless transitions through clean belts and controlled falsettos. The versatility enabled him to tackle notoriously challenging tracks like Take On Me and Crocodile Rock, daring even to jump the octave on the last note of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ as if it isn't challenging enough already!In the spirit of Freddie Mercury’s (alleged) famous quote "Do what you want with my music, just don't make it boring", Liam embraced creativity together with his guitarist, Noah, who stood upon the piano as if it were a stage during his stunning Bohemian Rhapsody guitar solo. The Beyonce effect was in full swing, as Liam brought out a leaf blower to get Noah’s long locks spectacularly blowing in the wind.The band was phenomenal with an especially strong horn section. The trumpetist, Angus, deserves a special shout-out, as he had some show stopping solos. Liam himself showed off his multi talented musical skills on harmonica, kazoo, keytar and of course piano.Liam, obviously a well seasoned performer, reacted calmly and humorously to the pyrotechnics not turning off and seamlessly let the backstage crew know to unplug the fire hazard. Not only did Liam put on a fabulous show, but he did it all in heels. So, who won the grand title of King of The Keys? Drumroll please … Elton John! Liam closed the show with Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me and I'm Still Standing as a tribute to the ‘Rocket Man’. The standing ovation from the crowd was well deserved. 

It was standing room only at Kiama Anglican Church for the latest successful instalment of the Classical Kiama Concert series, performed by Goldner String Quartet on 7 April 2024. With approximately 120 people in attendance, this sell-out show marked one of the final performances for the distinguished Goldner String Quartet. The musicians announced their disbandment late last year after collaborating since 1995. Each having performed with prestigious companies such as Australian Chamber Orchestra and Sydney Symphony Orchestra, the quartet is comprised of Dene Olding and Dimity Hall on violin, violist Irina Morozova and cellist Julian Smiles. Hall and Smiles are a married couple, as are Olding and Morozova.PerformersPerforming a “potpourri of quartet excerpts”, as described by band member Dene Olding, the quartet moved seamlessly through works of varying energies from classical composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Schumann, alongside up-and-coming young Australian composer, Harry Sdraulig. Perfectly timed notes from all musicians filled the intimate space with a richness that clearly captivated all in attendance. A heartfelt round of applause upon conclusion inspired an inevitable encore, with the quartet performing a piece by Czech composer, Dvořák, which shone a spotlight particularly on Smiles’ brilliance on the cello.Roslyn, Nick & Anne“The Goldner Quartet were superb. We are really lucky to have had them in Kiama. It was a beautiful program, and the encore was just magical,” says regular attendee of Classical Kiama concerts, Karen Lateo.The energy in the Church that evening was undeniably uplifting. This was felt too by the quartet, who – despite their looming disbandment – would warmly welcome a return to our region in some capacity.“We really enjoyed performing for Classical Kiama. We were thrilled with the capacity audience, which was very welcoming, responsive and appreciative,” says Hall.Natalia & Diana“The location is spectacular, and the Anglican Church is a perfect venue for chamber music. The acoustic is lovely and the ambience warm and intimate. We would gladly return in some form or other and we wish Classical Kiama all the best for their continuing series of concerts.”Remaining Classical Kiama events for 2024 include Daniel Röhn (violin) and Olena Nikulina (piano) on 16 June, Jesse Flowers (guitar) on 18 August, and Simon Tedeschi (piano) and George Washingmachine (jazz violin and vocals) on 6 October. An end of year concert will follow in December, with details to be announced shortly. For further details and bookings, visit the Classical Kiama Facebook page.

The King is coming to town, The King of the Keys that is. Liam Cooper, Australia’s piano man, is bringing his musical spectacular King of the Keys to Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre this April, Thursday the 11th at 7:30pm. Liam Cooper comes along with a personal motive, raising awareness for entertainers’ mental health. In this dazzling show, you can expect to hear sonnets from the greatest pianists of our time, including favourites by Billy Joel, Elton John, Peter Allen, Stevie Wonder, Queen, Ray Charles and many more. “Growing up learning the piano, I’ve always been inspired by the artists in this show – the songwriting, the stories, the sound – it just gets me so excited and it’s a joy to bring that to the stage with some incredibly talented musicians behind me,” Mr Cooper said. The King Of The Keys premiered in 2018, but like many artists, Liam felt the pressure and mental load that comes with the job. In 2023, Liam had planned a 25 show tour around Australia. Unlike many touring artists, Liam had a background in marketing and took the burden of planning, marketing, budgeting and all the work that goes on behind the scenes completely upon himself. “I was fully immersed in preparing for this tour, but I was completely overwhelmed trying to do it on such an intense scale,” Mr Cooper said. “The financial pressures associated with putting on so many shows and the risk of not breaking even, it all became too much. My wife and I had our first baby on the way, and I was still adjusting to performing again after the pandemic.”The show was pulled ten weeks out from opening night. Despite his personal dismay, Liam believes it was the correct decision to put his mental health first. “There was a lot of shame about it. I was so passionate about this tour and so many people were on the project, my band, the venues, those who had bought tickets. To turn around and admit that I couldn’t physically do this, it was really hard to do.” In light of his experiences, Liam is donating a portion of ticket sales to Support Act, an Australian charity that provides crisis relief, mental health and wellbeing support to musicians, managers, crew and music workers across all genres of music. “Support Act helps people in my industry with mental health,” Liam says. “If that service can help others in my position with the stress and anxiety of producing and promoting live entertainment, or musicians and theatre technicians like mine who lost work because of cancellations, I want to support that.”The King of The Keys won’t run like your regular show. After celebrating 15 artists, sharing 40 songs and the inspiring stories behind them, the audience gets their say on which artist is crowned King of the Keys and the final song is dedicated to the audience choice. Liam's dream is to take the tour to Vegas. He invites everyone to attend the show so they can say “we saw it first” before it hits the Entertainment Capital one day. Find more info at tickets at https://kingofthekeys.com/, for more information about Support Act go to https://supportact.org.au/

From April 10th to 15th each year, World Music Therapy Week spotlights the profound impact of music on healing and wellness. But what exactly is music therapy? Simply put, it's the use of music-based activities to achieve non-musical health goals.Dr. Kath Lawson, Kiama’s dedicated music therapist, explains, "Registered Music Therapists are university-trained allied health professionals who work with people of all ages and stages of life. Each session is tailored to the individual or group, and it’s usually heaps of fun."Music therapy is more than just entertainment. "There’s a lot of processing and development going on through the music-making," Dr. Kath emphasises. "Anyone can participate in music therapy, regardless of musical ability. It’s not necessarily about performance, though that can happen if it’s someone’s particular interest."Dr. Kath's experiences highlight the breadth of music therapy's impact. "I’ve worked with pre-school children, families, young adults, and older people,” she says. “I’ve even been part of a research project focusing on songwriting for people with dementia and their care partners. Over a 10-week program, they managed to write 36 songs together!"Music therapy's beauty lies in its therapeutic essence, addressing needs across various life circumstances. Whether supporting individuals with disabilities, aiding rehabilitation, navigating trauma or mental health challenges, or enhancing quality of life in chronic health conditions or palliative care, music therapy offers a versatile approach to enrichment."It’s incredibly special to work with people in this way. Your brain just works differently on music," Dr. Kath says. Today, music therapy is integrated into numerous hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health hubs. Participants in the NDIS scheme often access music therapy as part of their individual plans.To learn more about music therapy's potential to support you or someone you know, visit the Australian Music Therapy Association’s website, or contact Dr. Kath at 0402 101 312. 

Music enthusiasts from near and far gathered in Kiama the weekend of 8 10 March for the annual Jazz and Blues Festival. The three day long event is known for its vibrant atmosphere and jam packed lineup of artists, attracting visitors from all over. The festival is an annual community run festival that is set across various exciting locations in the Kiama local area, including in Gerringong. Attendees were treated to a diverse range of musical styles from smooth jazz to gritty blues rhythms, as talented musicians took to the stage to showcase their skills. The streets of Kiama were abuzz as street performers hogged the limelight across Terralong Street and various other spots like Surf Beach, Bouquiniste, Fillmores and Burnetts on Barney. Tom Harrington at Burnett's on BarneyThroughout the weekend the festival continued to delight audiences with a packed schedule of performances and an array of delicious foods and beverages from local vendors, adding to the overall experience of the weekend. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere proved to be a highlight and as the festival finishes up Kiama anticipates its return next year.Street performers outside the Old Fire Station had crowds enthralled

As Berry transforms into a kaleidoscope of colours, love, and inclusion, locals and visitors alike are gearing up for a month-long celebration of Mardi Gras. From the lively streets to the colourful events, Berry is painting the town rainbow to commemorate love, diversity, and inclusion.The celebrations also include the ‘Free 2 Choose’ Competition, offering a chance for one lucky couple to win a romantic escape to this charming village. The prize includes a one-night stay in a Deluxe Room at The Berry View and two free experiences, each valued at $300, from a specially curated love-and-luxury-themed itinerary. This is an opportunity to connect with your partner and celebrate the freedom to choose who you love. To enter this competition, participants can find more details and submit their entry here.As the month unfolds, the celebration reaches its peak with the Mardi Gras Recovery Disco Ball on Saturday, 23rd March 2024. Hosted at The Southern Hotel, this event promises a night filled with great music, colourful disco fun, and an abundance of sparkle. The dance floor will come alive with the beats of Berry's very own Electric Ginger, so, if you thought the Mardi Gras season was winding down, think again! Dust off your dancing shoes and join the community for a night of celebration and joy.As Berry paints the town rainbow in celebration of Mardi Gras there's a sense of unity in the air. The Free 2 Choose Competition and the Mardi Gras Recovery Disco Ball are just a glimpse of the excitement that Berry has to offer this month. So, don't miss out on the chance to win a romantic retreat and dance the night away at the disco ball – Berry is calling, and it's a celebration you won't want to miss!

Adélaïde Ferrière held Kiama under her musical spell on Saturday 24 February 2024. The events organiser, Daniel Rohen, welcomed Kiama locals, playfully thanking them for choosing the ‘right’ decision - to be there insead of the rugby! The night consisted of a musical composition of classics, such as Bach, Handel and Debussy and new styles including Blue Smoke, a composition by Michael Burrit remastered for marimba, the first time ever being played in Kiama. Adélaïde, known for her exceptional talent on the marimba, carefully crafted each piece to be compatible with the instrument, adding a new experience for the audience. For compositions I was more familiar with, such as Rhapsody In Blue from Gershwin, it almost felt like a whole new song. The meditative, soft and mellow sounds of the marimba are almost a direct dichotomy from the bright timbre of a piano. Still, Adélaïde played them with conviction, effortlessly navigating the massive instrument with four mallets.A highlight of the evening was the debut of a new arrangement of "Blue Smoke" by Michael Burritt. Those in attendance had the privilege of being among the first in the world and the first in Kiama to savour this rendition. Daniel Rohen expressed pride in the overwhelming community support, evident in the filled church, and eagerly announced the upcoming classical concert on 7 April, featuring the 30th and final tour of Goldner String Quartet. We were very thankful to be able to chat to Adélaïde after her performance. She was ecstatic to be doing her first performances in Australia - and more excited for her holiday here after the tour. She explained to me that the technique of using two mallets in each hand took her ten years to master. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her precision and musicality. Check out these amazing images from the show and keep an eye on our whats on page to stay up to date on upcoming Classical Kiama Concerts.

Gerringong Music Club presents Estampa Gerringong Town Hall Sunday 10 March 2024 – Estampa promise to enchant audiences with a unique musical experience rooted in the traditions of French jazz and Brazilian bossa novas. Event details:What: EstampaWhen: Sunday 10 March 2024 11am-12.30pm. Doors open at 10.30am.Where: Gerringong Town Hall, 106 Fern St, Gerringong NSW How: Book your tickets online or at the door. Gerringong Music Club, in association with Musica Viva Australia, is pleased to present Estampa to the Gerringong Town Hall at 11am on Sunday 10 March 2024.Evoking visions of Parisian laneways, South American sensuality and the unbridled joy of jazz, Estampa is a group of diverse musicians delivering energetic, internationally-inspired performances. Rooted in the traditions of French jazz and Brazilian Bossa Novas, Estampa provides a unique musical experience that will leave you feeling like you’ve entered a 1930’s Parisian jazz club or the streets of São Paulo. "We are thrilled to bring Estampa to Gerringong for the first time," said Imogen Stewart, the newly appointed Musical Director of the Gerringong Music Club. "Gerringong Music Club has been bringing quality music to the community for 20 years and we’re confident Estampa’s performance will strike a chord with our audience. This upcoming concert holds special significance as it marks the Club’s 20th anniversary since our first performance.” Speaking about the anniversary, Imogen Stewart said, “Many special people in our community have played pivotal roles in establishing the Club and on March 10 we’ll be honouring a select few. Community support is vital to the Club’s success and we’re grateful to see a new wave of locals answering the call to join in leading the Club.” Share the joy of beautiful music and connection with friends and book your tickets online or buy them at the door. Get your tickets at https://www.gerringongmusicclub.com.au  Members, children and students are free. Visitors $30.More information - https://thebuglenewspaper.com.au/whats-on/whats-on/estampa-comes-to-gerringong?id=65dc16c7ea70660029614e2f

Kiama is host to a plethora of talented musicians, and local songwriter Dan Challis is no exception. In conversations with Dan, his genuine passion for music and humble demeanour are immediately apparent. Over the years, Dan established a reputation as a stage performer in clubs and at festivals, a difficult feat in a crowded field. Now he has embarked on a new venture - teaching.Dan's decision to delve into teaching was influenced by a valuable lesson from his father: "If you ever want to learn something, teach it." Taking this wisdom to heart, a few months ago he initiated private guitar lessons for anyone interested. He emphasises, "I'm approaching teaching with the mindset that I'm always learning too. I'm not a 'god of guitar'; I'm just sharing the skills and knowledge I've acquired so far."Growing up in Queensland, Dan developed a deep love for music. His inspirations draw from lyrical depth and emotive language, citing influences such as Bob Dylan and James Taylor. However, during his live performances, he notes the audience's preference for jams from the likes of John Denver, Credence, and a few Aussie Classics.Before making Kiama his home, Dan, like many artists, faced the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on his time in Melbourne, he recalls the impact of lockdowns on his life. Working as a delivery driver while pursuing his dream, he experienced a sudden upheaval when, on a Friday, he lost his job and had ten upcoming gigs cancelled in a single day. This period was marked by a sense of impending doom, a sentiment shared by many during those uncertain times.Nevertheless, the clouds of COVID eventually lifted, leading Dan to Kiama. After settling in, he transitioned to a full-time career in music, both performing and, more recently, teaching. Encouraging his students to bring their goals to lessons, whether focused on acoustic guitar techniques or seeking guidance on songwriting and composition, Dan shares, "I learn through my own mistakes, which helps me identify and address others' mistakes and bad habits."Dan's combination of patience, talent, experience, and humility makes him an exceptional teacher. For those interested in keeping up with his gigs or reaching out for lessons, Dan can be contacted at 0456 063 747 or via email at [email protected]. To stay updated on his activities, you can find him on Facebook or Instagram by searching for Dan Challis Music. 

Classical Kiama Concerts are star studded this year, we don’t even have to leave our backyard for the world's top performers to come to our coastal town. Coming all the way from Paris, Kiama is one of only three places in Australia being graced with the talents of percussionist, Adélaïde Ferrière. Daniel Rohn, the organiser of Classical Kiama Concerts and renowned violinist, is thrilled to be hosting Ferrière and says this show is not to be missed “We are starting out this season with a big splash to kick off the year.”Adélaïde’s accolades are nothing short of impressive. She earned her master's degree with the highest distinctions at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris in 2017 at the young age of 20. Additionally, she studied at the prestigious London Royal College of Music. Notably, she received the award of Revelation Soliste Instrumental at the 24th Victoires de la Musique Classique, making history as the first percussionist nominated for an award at this prestigious event.Rohn says that Percussionist can be a misleading word and Ferrière is far more than that. We can expect to see her renditions of classic composers such as Vivaldi, Bach, Handel, Debussy and more. One of Ferrière’s stand out talents is her ability to play marimba with two mallets in each hand. Rohn says her precision allows her to play complex pieces, usually reserved for pianists. Recognized by 'Le Monde' as 'a phenomenon,' Ferrière's exceptional talent and remarkable achievements have earned her this well-deserved title, all before her 28th birthday. The performance is scheduled at Kiamas Anglican Church on the 24th of February at 5pm, and tickets can be purchased at ‘trybooking.com/CNZBL’. Tickets range from $55.00 to $65.00 and you can keep up to date with upcoming shows on the Classical Kimama Instagram and Facebook. Daniel Rohn has curated a series of four or five more concerts throughout the year, including a special performance on the 7th of April featuring the Goldner String Quartet, celebrating their 30th and final season together. Make sure to mark your calendar as one thing is certain – this season promises a cultural feast that should not be missed. Daniel Rohn and Rory.

Twelve year old Cha Cha Sullivan is making waves in the world of country music with her dad Kevin Sullivan and her two brothers making up the band The Sulli-vans.Cha Cha has secured a significant win at McDonald’s Golden Gig which was held during the Tamworth Country Music Festival this year. The Golden Gig gives young music artists the opportunity to display their talent and kick start their music journey. Coming in second place, Cha Cha was eager to share her plans with her winnings. She has been saving up to purchase a mandolin which she is very excited to start learning. Cha Cha’s journey to music began in the home and from a very young age. Her family hit the road to perform live music all over Australia. She wrote her first song during Covid at the age of eight, called Flower Fields. She was inspired by the view from her verandah that overlooked fields of flowers. Taking a leaf out of dad’s book, Cha Cha began writing and continues to follow her dreams and perform live music with her family. The young artist wowed audiences and judges with her captivating performance, showcasing not only her impeccable singing skills but also her talent as a songwriter. Cha Cha is passionate and motivated, with so much enthusiasm for her work. She juggles a full schedule with school, live performances and her sport commitments. Cha Cha has just embarked on her high school journey where she loves History and PDHPE the most and is very grateful to have such nice teachers. She also represents the South Coast in Oz Tag. She loves travelling the country with her family and seeing all the sights Australia has to offer and she is extremely grateful to have been given the opportunities she has. As she gears up for her next tour to the Northern Territory, Cha Cha is an inspiration to other young artists who want to follow their dreams.

Kiama's iconic Surf Beach was transformed into a sensational stage on Friday night, treating locals to an unforgettable show. The headline act, internationally acclaimed Melvo Baptiste, took a break from his global tour to grace Kiama with his presence. Supported by a lineup of exceptionally talented local artists including Catfish, Sam Fransisco, Clay Zane, and Groove Society, the night promised a musical journey that lived up to its expectations.Despite a last-minute venue change, the crowd seamlessly followed, finding themselves at the Surf Club, which provided a stunning backdrop for the evening's performances. Each artist showcased their extraordinary talents, flawlessly transitioning between sets without missing a beat.Wollongong-based DJ Catfish kicked off the night, setting the tone with infectious electronic funk. Not content with staying behind the decks, Catfish later joined the dancefloor to support local DJ Sam Fransisco. Sam's lively set had the crowd in motion, even sharing the stage with two enthusiastic young children, who added their own flair to the festivities.Next up was Kiama's own multi-talented Clay Zane, whose impressive set ignited the dancefloor. From his achievements as an author and owner of Bouquinest to his skills as a DJ, Clay effortlessly showcased his musical prowess and deep connection with Kiama's local performers. Clay expressed his excitement about Melvo's participation in the event. Melvo, a West London-born DJ, tastemaker, and label head, became an integral part of the Glitterbox radio show after meeting Defected Records' Founder in 2017. Not only did he become a crowd favourite and the face of the show, but he also released his debut single 'Bad Company' in 2020 and established his own label dedicated to nurturing new talent.Known for his eclectic mix of groove, soul, disco, and classic house, Melvo Baptiste's set electrified Kiama's surf beach. The atmosphere transformed into a lively party, complete with flowing drinks, dazzling lights, and infectious dancing. Clay and his team orchestrated a fabulous event, featuring dancers, smoke machines, and dance lights that elevated Kiama's entertainment scene.Despite the looming threat of rain, the show went on without a hitch. Post-performance, Catfish expressed excitement about Kiama's growing DJ community, hoping for more shows on the horizon. Kiama has undoubtedly solidified its position as the place to be for exceptional musical experiences. Watch this space, as the vibrant Kiama DJ community is poised to deliver more unforgettable shows in the future.

The Red Hot Summer Tour, held on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at the Kiama Showground, truly lived up to its name, attracting thousands of locals and visitors on a stunning summers day.Despite headliner Jimmy Barnes being unable to perform due to ongoing recovery from open-heart surgery, the event showcased an expanded lineup of talent. Jon Stevens, accompanied by his entourage, delivered a stellar set featuring Noiseworks and INXS hits, followed by a performance by The Living End before the grand finale. The stage saw outstanding acts from Birds of Tokyo, a crowd-favourite, Pete Murray, Kasey Chambers, and Sam + Sam.The concert, which has faced challenges in the past, including six washouts in Kiama and COVID disruptions, finally enjoyed favourable weather. In March 2020 the event was postponed four times, to October 2020, then March 2022, then to 3 April 2022 and finally ran on 16 October 2022 successfully.Fans remained loyal during this whole process of delay, many remembering the tremendous success of the 18 March 2017 sold-out Red Hot Summer Tour concert at the Showground with John Farnham, James Reyne, Daryl Braithwaite and Shannon Noll.Damien Hatfield and Annabelle Chapman from Palm Beach with Sammy and Alex Coombes (Gerringong). Damien thought Pete Murray set was great and thought it was "unreal" that he would see Ian Moss playing later. The tour returned in 2018 and 2019 before the long hiatus with Covid from 2020 to 2022 finally back last year in October at the Kiama Pavilion. With the intense heat, some attendees left early, even though there was a no-return policy. However, Kiama’s seaside location provided a refreshing sea breeze for those who sought relief. With attendees advised to bring camp chairs, the festival maintained a feel-good, relaxed atmosphere, complete with a lively mosh pit in front of the stage.Sam and Jesse who opted to leave the show early due to the heat posing with Keisha and Dominic from Evolution traffic controlParamedics reported running out of sunscreen, emphasising the need for festival-goers to “be prepared with essentials like sunscreen, water, hats and even tampons”. Red Hot Summer hats became a popular choice among the crowd, proving a boon for the merchandise stall.Event organiser Duane McDonald, expressed his relief at the fantastic weather. After the series of washouts at Kiama it was a great bonus. Sally Kearney, managing the merchandise stall, praised Duane for running a fantastic operation, highlighting the close-knit team's years of collaboration. “We’re a family organisation with team members becoming family as well.”Sally Kearney with Event organiser Duane McDonald and Sallyanne Robertson - a family run festivalThe Red Hot Summer Tour caused the inevitable traffic grid in Kiama main streets. Listening to pre show advice, many visitors opted for train travel, with trains arriving packed to capacity prior to the event, and festival-goers walking down to the Showground from the Kiama Railway Station.The Evolution Traffic Control team however reported smooth patron entry, though they acknowledged there is always traffic chaos post-event when party-goers leave the stadium.Festival goers from Sydney - Darren and Sam with Ningbo Zhang at one of the myriad of food stalls - looking forward to The Living EndFestival-goers shared their standout moments, with mentions of Kasey Chambers' Eminem cover and Pete Murray's exceptional performance. Birds of Tokyo energised the crowd and the whole event rocked. The final act, hosted by Jimmy’s daughter Mahalia Barnes showcased iconic Barnes and Chisel songs sung by Australian artists Jon Stevens (though kiwi born), Chris Cheney, Ian Moss and previous performers, closing the day on a high note. Jimmy Barnes expressed gratitude for the support of his fellow musicians and the unique show they presented.Ryan and Marilyn from Woonoona enjoying the coastal breeze. They loved the Kasey Chapman cover of Eminem's 'Lose Yourself'Despite the challenges of putting on such a huge event, the Red Hot Summer Tour in Kiama proved to be a resounding success, delighting both the event organisers and the enthusiastic crowd in attendance.Craig Mason and Vicki Poulton from Shellharbour were enjoying the concert and got swept away dancing with Birds of TokyoThe Bugle has a festival pack to give away to a lucky winner. Share your most iconic festival photo on our Bugle facebook page for a chance to win.  The Bugle Knows

   Tens of thousands of hard core festival fans turned Kiama Showground into Festival City with the sold out Changing Tides Music Festival on the weekend of 16 and 17 December 2023 bringing a lineup of great acts worthy of any music festival in the world and big numbers of visitors rocking up to enjoying the baking heat of one of the year’s hottest days in true festival tradition of extreme weather. The rules to get in were strict with one local observing someone getting turned away at the gate by security to get their passport. Others commented on the strong police presence including sniffer drug dogs.  Simon Felice is the organiser of the inaugural Changing Tides festival and has a lot of experience in the organization of festivals. His family owned Crooked River Winery for 25 years until two years ago and Simon describes the line up as his dream ticket straight from his own Spotify playlist!The Temper Trap - Changing TidesSimon first started six years ago with his brother Joseph running a whole series of festivals, some based at the Crooked Winery in Gerringong. The vibe of the 18 or older only boutique music and food festival combined the old school feel of classic big festivals like Big Day Out which finished in 2014, with more chill intimate festivals that bring a 2023 vibe to the stage. ‘Changing Tides’ kicked off on Saturday 16 December, with local Wollongong indie- rock band ‘Finding Darcy’, who played a great set, and then the welcome to the country, until the first big headliner G flip came on, whose set was amazing! Soldout ChangingTides festival Kiama ShowgroundG flip (they/them) was so engaged with the crowd and fans, as they were the only act to approach the sea of fans to get in close for their fans to take pictures and say hello. G flip, previously known for their profound drumming, blossomed their talent further and became a singer and musician via social media, streaming daily drumming content on instagram and Tik Tok until they gained over 100,000 fans! By constantly streaming their work, and then changing their profile to be more accommodating to talent scouts, then came the record producers to bring their music to their now massive following, G flip got taken more seriously, and now we have amazing artists on their music journey like G flip arriving in the Kiama LGA in 2023! G Flip up close and personalThe headliners on the big stage in the middle of the Kiama Showground were Wollongong band Dune Rats, Drummer G flip, then Peking Duk. Peking Duk are a crowd mood setting duo of DJs called Adam Hyde and Reuben Styles who started in Canberra and are known for how much fun they have on stage with their high energy dance mixes. They are often described as cheeky and ‘party ready’. Their music can include fun remixes of Aussie classics like ‘I Want You’ by Darren Hayes of Savage Garden fame. After the Duks, came the Jungle Giants, an indie rock band from Brisbane with what they like to call their genre-agnostic sound. The members are Sam Hales, Cesira Aitken, Andrew Dooris, and Kelsan Bijker. Their fans describe them as ‘indie rock royalty’ and they get a lot of airplay on radio stations like Triple J. The Jungle Giants, played the longest set, with their worldwide hit “Feel the Way I do” bringing in crowds from as far as Townsville, with one festival goer saying she traveled from Townsville to see her two favourite artists G Flip, and the Jungle Giants. This hard-core Jungle Giants fan told The Bugle she took two flights, and spent $1,000 “I had a great time and it was worth every cent.” The sets for performers were about 45 minutes apart, giving festival goers time to approach the local vendors, and check out the chill out zones, or VIP areas inside the Kiama Pavilion. Inside were food and drinks stalls, local vendors selling merchandise and even a paint your own surfboard kiosk which was very popular.On the Saturday night the party continued into the warm night with an energy filled dance party with some great vibes from some great female dance music acts like SYCCO, Kita Alexander, and also Dulcie and The Moving Stills. With other headliners coming in and dropping in unexpectedly throughout the night, some outstanding performances were on show the whole night. On Sunday the party continued with acts like PNAU, Royal Blood (from the UK) The Temper Trap and Ziggy Alberts. Sydney’s PNAU shares a band member with Empire of the Sun, and specialise in ‘grab your friends and weep with joy’ dance anthems to uplift the spirit and make some awesome memories for when you are older and the knees don’t work so well! Shade was in hot demand!Other acts on the Sunday in the heat included Leisure, Merci, Mercy,Jacotene, Jack Botts and Felip Baldomir. Leisure are regarded in New Zealand as an electronic supergroup due to each members individual success with previous musical projects. Like all dance festivals they can have a darker side, and measures were taken to make sure all partygoers had a safe as well as a fun time. Hydration stations were set up everywhere for example.Alcohol was strictly on site only for sale, with no wine!!!! and only party style premixers. A mobile breath testing festival unit was set up, who told The Bugle they had covered 6 local festivals this year, including Yours and Owls in Wollongong. Festival goers were encouraged to use the station prior to exiting.For a reading of 0.018, the mobile RBT unit staff gave the advice they would be safe to drive however to keep in mind that number would continue to rise even hours after you finished drinking. The Sniff off campaign which focuses on the use of police drug sniffer dogs at festivals published pics of the dogs at the Kiama Changing Tides festival on their social media. Security tight!Outside the grounds of the Pavilion, you could see many locals enjoying the music, with some locals finding themselves with a view of the performers on the screen from the top of Surf Beach from the southern headland, essentially getting themselves a great night with free music and a view. However, not all the locals were happy with some garden damage at the nearby Kiama Uniting Church attributed to illegal parking with cars driving over the garden to avoid the chain fence stopping people parking. Overall the music and the atmosphere at Changing Tides was an energised and fan fun success, with a great mix of big time festival styles of old and the chill intimate boutique festival by the sea, and Kiama is already excited for the next one. Harlow Events, who organised the Changing Tide event, said on their site they have been developing a boutique music festival style on the South Coast. They said they wanted to create the most boutique music and food festival on the South Coast with the Changing Tides festival in Kiama. The event was clearly a great success, and it looks like the plan to make Kiama a sought-after destination for many more festivals for the future was also a success.The Bugle spoke to a number of Sydney festival goers many who are self confessed festival junkies: " It was a good experience overall. It was my first time seeing all these artists and it was nice to see all Australian artists on the stage." (Camille)"Great small town intimate vibe" (Steph)"Very wholesome festival, some great Australian artists" (Summar)"Truly a lovely festival! The music and the crowd had such a great vibe. Definitely celebrated Australia’s music artists". (Tiana)"Great festival! Loved the location and the small venue so all the facilities were close by. Great food and drink options. Would love it if it's a bit bigger next time though!" (Emily) Overall a superb weekend without any major incidents. Well done to all involved.With the sucess of the many events held here one ask to ask the question - is the future of Kiama to be a Festival Town??   

Renowned concert violinist Daniel Röhn recently concluded the year with two engaging performances at the Anglican Church on the headland. Daniel, a virtuoso in his own right, captivated the audience by seamlessly playing both the violin and the piano, presenting a thoughtfully curated selection of musical works that showcased his exceptional talent.Kiama is privileged to host a musician of Daniel’s international stature, making his local residency a truly fortunate circumstance. With a career spanning the globe, Daniel is not only widely recognised but also held in high esteem in the world of classical music. Beyond his musical prowess, he entertained the audience with his storytelling, offering insights into the background of each piece and why he chose to perform it.Among the standout moments for this reporter was Daniel's emotive rendition of the Tango (Por una Cabeza) by Gardel-Hadelich, a modern classic immortalised in the Al Pacino movie "Scent of a Woman." Daniel skilfully transported the audience to the scene of the dance, demonstrating his ability to evoke powerful emotions through his music. He shared his affinity for "speaking in movies," shedding light on the often-overlooked presence of classical music in cinematic experiences.Expressing his admiration for the legendary composer Johann Sebastian Bach, Daniel took the audience on a reflective journey playing the Adagio, Fuga Allegro, Siciliana, and Presto of Sonata no. 1 in G Minor BWV 1001. He described the fugue piece as "themed and mathematically perfect," showcasing his flawless execution and timing—all performed entirely from memory – not a sheet of musical score in sight.Adding a touch of fun for the audience was the lively 'Louisiana Blues Strut,' by Perkinson, a toe-tapping interlude that resonated with many.Personally, the experience was not only a feast for the soul through beautiful music but also a discovery of a movie recommendation: "The Red Violin." Daniel played five 'caprices' from the film, each narrating a distinct story, further enriching the concert experience.Looking ahead, Daniel Röhn revealed exciting plans for the upcoming year, announcing six Classical Kiama concerts starting on February 24, the first to feature percussionist Adélaïde Ferrière. Announcements, details and dates for future concerts can be tracked on the "Classical Kiama" Facebook page, and The Bugle will continue to reliably list on our "What’s On."

Creating a music festival from scratch is a herculean task for anyone, but creating a festival that’s inclusive of people of all ages and walks of life is another challenge entirely. That’s just what the Clearly Music, Art and Wellness Festival managed to pull off on 10-11 November.Clearly provided the perfect atmosphere for someone experiencing their first music festival. Australian music festivals need to strike the right balance between being inclusive to younger audiences while allowing adults to let their hair down with a drink or two, and Clearly got this balance perfect. Designated drinking areas meant rowdy behaviour never spilled over onto the dance floor, and kids could happily dance with their parents near by. The festival was headlined by Australian music royalty Peter Garrett of Midnight Oil fame, who brought his solo project Peter Garrett and The Alter Egos to Kiama. Garrett told audiences at the Clearer Workshop that he wouldn’t be dancing like he did 25 years ago. That didn’t last long, however.Garrett held the audience of mostly younger punters in his hand as he belted out tunes most would be unfamiliar with if you haven’t delved into his solo work. That didn’t matter to fans though, as punters young and old shared the dance floor with each other to chants of “Peter” throughout the entire set.It’s no secret many were hoping Garrett would play a few Midnight Oil hits, and he did not disappoint, ending the set with I Don’t Want To Be The One & Blue Sky Mine to send the audience home happy.Even with a lineup of some of Australia’s biggest artists, Clearly still managed to maintain a very “Kiama” feel, and it wasn’t just surf rock. There were plenty of local businesses selling their wares at market stalls and local food trucks from the region serving delicious delicacies.Festival punters have a tendency to default to self-preservation amid hot and cramped conditions, but Clearly’s message of living well also extended to enjoying the festival itself. Clearly didn’t just feel like any music festival, it was a festival Kiama can be proud to share with the rest of the country.

The Clearly Music, Arts & Wellness Festival kicked off at The Pavilion today with the Clearer Workshops, an integral part of this new festival designed to provide aspiring musicians, performers, songwriters, rappers, producers, and DJs with invaluable industry knowledge and artist development advice. Dom Ferber with Aunty Gwen and Mayor Neil Reilly - photo courtesy Brent BlackburnThe day was opened by Aunty Gwen with a welcome to country and a musically inspired speech from Mayor Neil Reilly and organisers Dom Ferber and Charlee Fraser. The smoking ceremony followed on the Pavilion verandah overlooking Surf Beach. At the heart of the Clearer Workshop is a conference and collaborative learning experience that brings together industry leaders and artists from across the country, including a keynote speech later in the day by Peter Garrett (Frontman of Midnight Oil and Former Federal Government Minister). Panel discussions started with Michael Chugg (Frontier Touring/Chugg Music), interviewed by Lars Brandle (Brag Media) before Chugg crosses the ditch to NZ for the Robbie Williams concerts. The dynamic workshop series showcases a wide range of industry expertise and insight.In a joint statement, Clearly and Clearer founder Dom Furber and founder of Be Here Nowra and the Baseline Happiness Project, Barron Hanson, shared their intentions: "The Clearer workshops will provide emerging artists with a unique opportunity to gain industry insights, build valuable networks, and develop the skills needed to succeed in their careers. Through this exciting initiative, we are committed to supporting the growth of aspiring artists and fostering a sense of well-being and strength within the creative community."Festival set up in progressThe Clearer Workshop will be followed tomorrow by the Clearly Music, Arts & Wellness Festival, which will debut its inaugural event. The festival will feature a three-stage, all-ages music festival in the iconic cliff top position in Kiama that is currently being set up. Headlining the inaugural edition of Clearly, Arts & Wellness Festival on the main stage is a multitude of legendary Australian talent, including iconic singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Xavier Rudd, Australian music legend and frontman of Midnight Oil, Peter Garrett, ARIA-nominated surf and garage rock trio Skeggs, and critically acclaimed singer-songwriters Ruby Fields and Gretta Ray.Co-founder of Clearly Music, Arts & Wellness Festival, Dom Furber, says: “I have always dreamed of delivering a festival of this scale locally since throwing my first event in Sydney Harbour in 2010. I was born in the area, attended primary school in Gerringong and high school in Kiama, so have close ties to the local community. Clearly Music, Arts & Wellness Festival and the Clearer Workshop will provide a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their talents and connect with audiences from all over. We can't wait to see the positive impact this festival will have on the community this year and in the years to come."Lars Brandle interviewing Michael Chugg at The Pavilion in KiamaFor more information: https://www.clearlyfestival.com/

Folk by the Sea showcased performers at the Kiama Pavilion, Kiama Anglican Church hall, Kiama Rugby Club and Kiama Uniting Church hall on Saturday. One of the highlights of the Kiama Folk by the Sea Festival was The Water Runners on the main stage in the Norfolk room of the Kiama Pavilion. Their current line up has John Littrich on guitar, vocals and harmonica, Danita Harris on violin, and backing vocals Neil McCann on mandolin, banjo, and backing vocals and James Turk on double bass The Water Runners sing a number of songs that tell the local history of the Kiama area, including stories of massacres, murders and mayhem. Aljamia are an interesting meld of songs and instruments from Portugal that blend European medieval music with the golden age of La Convivencia with musical influences for Christianity, Islam and Judaism. Peter Willey at the Kiama Rugby Club performing his version of the hilarious comic classic ‘The Kitchen Tea Tupperware Massacre of 1965.’ Downstairs at the Pavilion in the Saddleback Room, Rusty vs The Redfern Shanty Club had the room singing along to shanty classics with the aid of lyric sheets. They were introduced by local festival organiser legend, Russel Hannah who has been organising local festivals for over 30 years. The Kiama Anglican Hall had a novel live microphone option for new singers, with 2 songs round robin for new voices to try out for the first time the experience of singing at a folk festival. Check out a taster of some of this afternoon's sounds here.

Daisy Pring’s new singleKiama’s love affair with music is well-documented, but we mostly hear from local rock and folk artists. One Gerringong artist is breaking that mould, and is ready to take on the pop world with her brand new single.Daisy Pring is a former Kiama High School student who has been singing and performing her entire life. At just 20 years old, Daisy is gearing up to release her second single, Falling Together, on 10 October.Daisy often hears comparisons between her music and modern pop icon Dua Lipa, but says her music influences range from contemporary pop stars like Ariana Grande, The Weeknd and Raye, to trailblazers like Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and Mariah Carey.Influence from The Weeknd is more obvious on her second single, including thick, low-fidelity synthesisers underlaid with a slick guitar riff. While her first single, Retrograde, has a bouncier, almost disco sound, Falling Together, is a power anthem written about darker themes: the cycle of a toxic relationship. Lyrics like “I can tell it's been messing you up, falling out and in, in out of love” and “don't let the toxins in your veins” hammer this point home.“It’s about toxic relationships from the perspective of someone telling their friend all of the time they’re wasting on something that’s not going anywhere,” Daisy told The Bugle “...and how you get stuck in a back and forth cycle over something that’s not going to last.”Daisy wrote the song at home on her midi piano before taking it to Australian-Japanese music producer Taka Perry who is known for working with the likes of Ruel and Denzel Curry. “Taka started to thicken up the song from the original piano chords up, adding a sick guitar riff in the post chorus which is one of my favourite parts of the track. We then worked on the verses and the chorus keeping the theme of poison and toxins as a metaphor for the toxic relationship the song speaks about.”The single launches on all good music streaming platforms on 10 October, and Daisy is hosting a gig on 12 October at El Horses in Nowra to celebrate, with Kiama’s Denim On Her supporting.Daisy will also perform at the Crooked River Wines’ Dave Ferrit Festival on 2-3 December, headlined by DMA’s and Icehouse.