Tamborine Mountain Orchestra

A Short History of the Tamborine Mountain Orchestra
In October 1974, Tamborine Mountain’s special son, Raymond Curtis, along with his wife Eve and a band of dedicated enthusiasts, including Mrs Caryl Dixon (president for 16 years) and Dr. John Peck, set about creating an orchestra on ‘the Mountain’. With a population of only about 650 people, no music in the schools, few instruments, no music teachers and poor roads, it was a daunting task. Cake stalls and other fund-raising activities produced a range of second-hand and hired instruments and learners were driven to Beaudesert and the Southport for lessons. From a start with a young violinist, a good clarinettist, a bashful cellist and a motley set of musical aspirants a fine youth orchestra, with the ethos of a fond and enthusiastic family, grew.

Since those early days, many Mountain family members have passed through the orchestra’s ranks in playing and supporting roles. There have been half a dozen or so conductors since Raymond Curtis wielded his baton with flair, erudition and good humour. Malcolm Cunningham L. Mus., LTCL., FTCL, directed the orchestra for 11 excellent years before retiring in April 2013.

Sean Butler, our bassoon playing Director of Music, brings talent, charm and enthusiasm to the role.

With the changing times, the orchestra has broadened its base to include players ranging from 16 to 80 years of age! As a result of this happy mix, age barriers dissolve, players experience the joy of making music with others and find considerable satisfaction in their team membership.

A common story is that, on a whim, players have dusted off instruments they have not played for years, enjoyed the experience, overcome their trepidation and concerns about their levels of ‘rustiness’ and fronted up to join the orchestra. In every case, these players have found great satisfaction and good fun in their inclusion in our ‘happy band’.

If you can read music and play an instrument (not the comb and paper), there is a place for you to enjoy the fulfilling experience of making music in a happy, relaxed environment in the Tamborine Mountain Orchestra.

We are generously supported by the Scenic Rim Regional Council for which we are most grateful.