A great escape into song and rhythm

May 4, 2026 BY Evie Lamb

Musicians George Williams and Mishael Gyabeng are looking forward to The Great Escape at Buninyong's St Peter and St Paul's Catholic Church over 15-17 May. Photo: Evie Lamb.

PEOPLE coming together through the uplifting power of music is at the heart of Buninyong’s upcoming The Great Escape.

Set for 15-17 May at St Peter and St Paul’s Catholic Church, the weekend arts program will include workshops ranging from African drumming to singing and sound bathing in nature led by four Ballarat musicians.

“It’s an opportunity for people to come together and really enjoy the immersion in music and create something to perform on the Sunday,” said co-organiser George Williams, who will be leading a sound bath in nature and lullaby exchange.

RIGHT: Musicians George Williams and Mishael Gyabeng are looking forward to The Great Escape at Buninyong’s St Peter and St Paul’s Catholic Church over 15-17 May. Photo: Evie Lamb.

Those who get along will also have the chance to sing classic soul, pop and reggae numbers with singer Geoffrey Williams, learn African rhythms with Ghanaian drummer Mishael Gyabeng, and savour some cultural immersion with choral leader Stella Savy.

“I believe drumming supports mental health and brings happiness and togetherness,” said Gyabeng, looking forward to leading several drumming workshops over the weekend.

BELOW: Soul singer Geoffrey Williams will be leading workshops as part of The Great Escape. Photo: Supplied.

“Everything with music stands for peace and love, and the world we are living in needs more peace and love.”

On the Sunday afternoon before the program concludes, participants will be able to share what they’ve learned in a performance with Geoffrey Williams.

No musical experience is required to participate and tickets are at events.humanitix.com. Williams said the debut Great Escape could become an annual fixture.