News just in from Rod and Judy Jones is that the society has launched a new website. The site is not aimed at replacing any of the existing bluegrass or old time websites or faccebook pages. If you have a bluegrass or old-time music event that you think could be publicised to BTCMSA members, you can send details through via the new website.
The Bluegrass & Traditional Country Music Society of Australia (BTCMSA) was founded in June 1975 when around 30 people met in a room in the University of Sydney to talk about setting up a group for people who were interested in the music. From July, monthly open mic concerts started in the University of Sydney’s Fine Arts Workshop. People of all levels of ability were encouraged to play on stage supported by the more experienced musicians.
There was often a short square dance at the start. Occasionally there were workshops either on the night or at other times. Paul and Collen Trenwith and Colin Watson were regulars.
A monthly newsletter – The Cumberland County Rag followed and several concerts were organised with local, interstate and, later overseas guests. We even designed and screen-printed our own posters for the concerts.
A Victorian branch of the BTCMSA started up in 1985 and Pickin’ At The Piggery ran in Melbourne continuously until 2011 where it has morphed into The Blackwood Academy.
The National Bluegrass & Traditional Country Music Convention is held each year in Victoria. 2012 will be the 24th year.
Thirty-six years and three venues later, we are still getting together once a month in Sydney for a workshop and open mic acoustic concert! Check out the Sydney Bluegrass & Old-Time Music get-together page on Facebook.
Gee I wish I could contact someone to say I have change my email address