THE Yarraville Mouth Organ Band, which has been blowing a merry tune for 80 years, has launched a search for past members to share in its milestone birthday celebrations.
The band was formed in 1933 when Ernie Weybury saw young Lindsay Luscombe playing his mouth organ in the street.
Ernie decided to start a band as a way to give young people a positive way to spend their time in the Depression years.
A local music shop donated a dozen harmonicas and the Yarraville Mouth Organ Band was officially under way.
Current band secretary Heather Mavric said the 15 teenagers practised in an old shoe repair shop in Birmingham Street, Yarraville.
“They then began to perform for people less fortunate than themselves,” she said.
Just two years later, the band won the B-grade championships at Ballarat’s South Street Competitions.
The familiar band hall at 203 Williamstown Road has stood since being built by members in 1956-57.
The hall is named after Arthur Cardell in honour of his many years of service to the band, which these days rehearses in the hall from 8pm, Fridays.
Ms Mavric said the band continues to this day because of the commitment and dedication of its members.
Mostly, they entertain at nursing homes around the western suburbs and play at local festivals.
“Our members range in age from
their 20s to seniors, all of whom appreciate the music we play, most of which is reminiscent of an
earlier era and has a strong melody,” Ms Mavric said.
“These tunes evoke memories in elderly folk, often bringing a tear to an eye or causing a foot to tap which hasn’t tapped for years.”
The longest-surviving mouth-organ group from those early days, the band will celebrate its 80th anniversary with a concert and afternoon tea on Sunday, October 6.
“We’d like to hear from anyone who has been involved with, or had an interest in, YMOB over the years,” Ms Mavric said.
Contact Heather Mavric on 9399 2190, email ymob1933@yahoo.com.au or drop in to the hall Friday evenings
