The hall is alive with the sounds of music

By Jessica Howard

‘Tis the season for the Moorabool Light Orchestra to perform its annual festive concert.

‘Sounds of the Season’ will this year feature the talented nine-member Geelong Handbell Choir, directed by Gwyn Gillard.

Active since 1991, the Geelong Handbell Choir will perform with a team of ringers on a 3-octave set of Whitechapel handbells.

A handbell set is the name given to the musical instrument developed in England in the Middle Ages from the earlier Organica Tintinnabula – little bells of different tonal pitches; and the Cymbala – nine to 16 small bells suspended on a cross bar.

Moorabool Light Orchestra director, Barry Wilkins said the handbells will bring a unique musical experience to the local audience.

The annual performance will be conducted and directed by Mr Wilkins and lead by Robert Wrzaszcz, with Frank Clark from radio 3BA Ballarat as compere.

The Orchestra, comprising of more than 40 members, will also be joined by Ballarat soprano Carolyn Bennett, who has spent the last 15 years teaching voice.

“The Moorabool Light Orchestra will present a pleasant Sunday afternoon of special Christmas music to herald in the Christmas season,” Mr Wilkins said.
The Orchestra re-groups for approximately four to six weeks before its major concerts, with rehearsals held on Tuesday evenings at Bacchus Marsh Grammar School.

‘Sounds of the Season’ will be held from 2pm on Sunday December 17 at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.

Admission is just $25, with tickets available at the door from 1pm or pre-sales from Bacchus Marsh Florist and Nursery.
For more information, visit www.Moorabool-Light-Orchestra.com.