April 9, 2020
A virtual musical collaboration has been launched in a bid to better connect rural people during COVID-19.
The project is the work of Toowoomba musician Josh Arnold and Friends of the Alliance, the National Rural Health Alliance’s grassroots network across rural Australia.
Josh is well-known in the South Burnett area after making a string of music videos in collaboration with local schools and communities.
His latest project will provide an opportunity for people in rural and remote Australia to contribute ideas for a song title and lyrics.
The contributions will be collated and Josh will work with the participants to produce a unique and optimistic piece of music.
Contributors will also have the opportunity to workshop ideas with Josh via Zoom.
“Times are challenging at the moment, with many rural people working on the front line providing essential services or working from home in isolation,” Friends of the Alliance chair Rachel Yates said.
“During this time of uncertainty we would like to bring something positive and uplifting for all rural people to enjoy.”
The project aims to help people in rural communities to lift their spirits during this time of isolation, as well as raise awareness of the benefits of music to improve mental health.
“I love music and I love collaborating with people,” Josh said. “Music is so important to our lives but more important right now than ever.”
“Rural people have just faced the most devastating bushfires and drought and are now looking down the barrel of a worldwide pandemic. This is why I’ve joined forces with Friends of the Alliance to create a song about hope, resilience and that fighting Aussie spirit.”
The National Rural Health Alliance is the peak body for rural and remote health in Australia.
- External link: The “Small Town Culture” South Burnett video playlist
