Today marks the Yarraville Mouth Organ Band’s 90th birthday, established in 1933 by Ernie Weybury after he saw a 12-year-old boy playing a mouth organ in the street.
Secretary and keyboardist Heather Mavric said the nine playing members are thrilled to be celebrating this special occasion.
“The anniversary is wonderful to celebrate together,” she said.
“We are a good group of friendly people who all enjoy what they’re doing, 90 years for a mouth organ band is just incredible.”
Ms Mavric said the band typically plays in aged care facilities across the west, mostly playing older songs because the residents know and love them.
“Our repertoire is varied from sentimental waltzes to a lively march, tango or polka, all played on a chromatic harmonica,” she said.
A standout highlight for Ms Mavric has been watching the response from the residents.
“We enjoy the response we get from them, we are very aware that residents with dementia really benefit from hearing music they’re familiar with,” she said.
“We have had several aged care workers tell us some of the residents don’t talk but then we start playing and they hum along with us.
“We were also told another resident never ever opened his eyes, but as soon as we started playing he opened his eyes and started tapping his feet.
As for the Yarraville community, this is a celebration for all.
“There are still a few older people around who recognise the band and can’t believe we are still going strong,” she said.
“On Sunday, September 24, we plan to celebrate our birthday by opening the hall to visitors for an afternoon, we will entertain with a variety of our many popular songs.
“Everyone is welcome and most importantly new members are always welcome to the band.”
Jennifer Pittorino
