Name
Building Bridges Through Community Music Engagement After the Flood
Date & Time
Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 3:20 PM - 3:50 PM
Description
At previous ISME Conferences, I have reported on three years of rebuilding music higher education and music practice following the Covid-19 pandemic, with research centred on the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. The devastation of Covid was compounded when, in 2022, this region experienced the worst flooding in its recorded history. This paper investigates the recent activities, progress and healing of two community orchestras, one university and their communities which were greatly impacted by these events.Aims of this research are to investigate the long-term impact of these events on music education, musical practice, participation and performance; to identify challenges and opportunities presented by these events; then to evaluate the role of music in recovery, healing and building resilience of those affected.The research employs multiple qualitative methods (interviews and questionnaires) with members of two community orchestras, audiences, university students and lecturers. My research was triangulated using participant observation and autoethnography. Cases examined include post-Covid methods of music education delivery, musicians’ reconnection with orchestral playing after Covid and the flood, musicians re-engaging with their musical practice, and the resumption of orchestral performances.Results are mostly positive with both orchestras resuming annual performance regimes. Orchestra 1 has performed concerts at a cathedral closed since 2022 whilst undergoing repairs from the flood. Celebrating music in this sacred venue aligns with the theme of Spirituality. Orchestra 2 has expanded its performance footprint, touring to remote areas like Norfolk Island and outback Australia, and internationally in Europe and New Zealand. Musicians in the host locations join the orchestra, bridging gaps by unifying city and country and exemplifying collective expression between artists. Orchestra 2 maintains its generous philanthropic program, contributing significantly to building the social capital of its community.This research also investigates the health and well-being of musicians, teachers and students following the impact of Covid and floods. Examples presented include musicians changing instruments due to the effects of Covid, and others living in crisis accommodation while rebuilding housing destroyed by floods.Implications: Unfortunately, these catastrophes, plus declining student enrolments have caused the university to cease to offer its three Creative Arts degrees. The impact of this decision on students, staff and the uniquely creative community is investigated. Such disruptive change exemplifies Music Education Through Time, thus the research concludes by evaluating the legacy, impact and advocacy of members of both orchestras and the university involved in this study.
Location Name
513C
Full Address
Palais des Congres - Montréal Convention Centre
1001, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle
Montreal QC H2Z 1H2
Canada
1001, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle
Montreal QC H2Z 1H2
Canada
Session Type
Paper Presentation
Presenting Author(s)
Annie Mitchell