A brief background to the idea of the Heritage Bush Orchestra dates back to the ‘Festival Bush Orchestra’ sessions, run by Dave Johnson, which became an integral part of the participative nature of The National Folk Festival for many musicians. Participating musicians were provided with sheet music which was arranged in parts. Musicians of all skill levels were encouraged to take part, and many did. The music was practiced over a four day period, and later played in an orchestral arrangement for an appreciative audience.
How it works is that the score is arranged in parts. Musicians can choose what part that they would like to play, or you may be assigned to a part because of the type of instrument that you play, or there may be some discussion around what would work best for the music.
It is simply a wonderful feeling being part of a bush orchestra and listening to a tune come to life with you being part of it and making it happen.
The link to Dave Johnson’s website where more history and information is provided, as well as the music arrangements.