From Tilba, May 2025

Music is a universal language and its exercise may well be a measure of the spirit of the community in which it happens. No surprises then that The Drom, Central Tilba’s active pub hub, is the venue for The Drom String Sessions that began at the start of the year and happen monthly. Open to anyone who plays a stringed instrument, the sessions are an opportunity to play with other musicians, an experience that many musicians value, and are a true community gathering.

Bev Long, well-known local musician – banjo and guitar player, singer and tap dance teacher – has a long history in community music. Believing that there are too few chances for people to play and sing, Bev has sought to provide opportunities for people to get together. First it was The Dromedarys, a community ukulele group started over a decade ago. This led to the formation of The Dromedary Lynch Mob, a fifteen piece band led by Bev, that is the host band for The Drom String Sessions. Many will know Bev from the band, Jazz Alley, and also the former Stitch.

Held on the first Thursday of each month, the sessions go from 5.30 to 7.00 pm in the Barn at The Drom. There is a dinner break at 7.00 for those who wish to stay and an after-dinner jam session until 8.30. Bev prepares the music and shares it on Google Drive. Being a community gathering, the emphasis is on social, casual and enjoyable – there is no teaching and everyone is encouraged to play at their own level. More information is available on FB @The Drom String Sessions or by contacting Bev on bevanne2546 @ gmail.com or 0419 285 960.

The Drom plays an important role in the Tilba community and the encouragement from all involved  at the pub is greatly valued. The Drom String Sessions are part of community music events that include the weekly Open Mic and the hugely successful Tilba Rocks. There is also regular weekend music at The Drom.

Stuart Absalom