Rhythms of Ryde
Live Music Activation Program
Discover the Rhythm of Ryde! Experience our Live Music Activation Program where every day spaces transform into extraordinary experiences through live music. From intimate pop-ups at Meadowbank Wharf to vibrant drumming festivals, Ryde bursts to life day and night.
You are invited to join this unforgettable journey of music, connection, and sensory exploration featuring local and visiting artists. Whether it's a starlit date night or a relaxing picnic with family and neighbours, our program invites you to discover new dimensions in familiar places.
Embrace the magic of live music. Embrace your rhythm of Ryde.
September | Monday Night Blues
Location: Meadowbank Ferry Wharf
Time: 5.30pm - 7.00pm
Kickstart your week with the quiet pulse of Ryde! Join us for a captivating pop-up music series featuring talented local artists. Let their soulful tunes sweep you into the rhythm of Ryde, whether rain, fog, or shine. It's more than just music—it's an experience that transforms your Monday nights into something special.
Monday 9 September | Hilary Geddes
Hilary Geddes is a guitarist, improviser and composer who works as an in-demand musician in the Australian jazz and improvised music scenes, performing alongside jazz luminaries such as Mike Nock, Lakecia Benjamin (USA), Laurence Pike and Jonathan Zwartz.
Monday 16 September | Cameron Jones
Cameron Jones is a guitarist, composer, festival director and educator. With his Selmer-style guitar, he harnesses the vibrancy of authentic manouche jazz. He uses percussive guitar rhythms to complement bright, expressive melodies.
Monday 23 September | Ruby Firmstone
Ruby Firmstone is an emerging guitarist, currently studying Jazz Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music with extensive performance experience. Ruby has learnt from esteemed Australian jazz musicians including John Morrison, Steve Brien and Kevin Hunt. A versatile musician, Ruby enjoys performing and writing music in a variety of musical contexts.
Monday 30 September | Ben Daley
Jazz guitarist Ben Daley is well known for his unique approach to the instrument, for his warm sound and for improvisational storytelling through melody and song. His roots are firmly in the jazz tradition, exploring standards and original arrangements by modern jazz and pop/folk composers, filtered through the lens of deep communication and improvisation.
November | Starry Starry Night: A Romantic Evening Under the Stars
Location: Lachlan’s Line Park
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of Ryde's local string quartets at our magical outdoor concert, "Starry Starry Night". Nestled in the heart of Lachlan's Line, this evening promises to serenade your Saturday night with elegance and romance.
Gather your loved ones, pack a picnic basket, and join us for an unforgettable musical journey under the twinkling night sky. Let the harmonious strings and celestial ambiance transport you as you embrace the rhythm of Ryde. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories in a setting where music and starlit skies blend into pure magic.
Date: Saturday 9 November
Artist Lineup: TBA
December | Masterclass & Jam session
Location: Lachlan’s Line Auditorium& Lachlan’s Line, Ryde
Drumming Masterclass with Simon Barker: Unleash Your Rhythmic Creativity
Join renowned drummer Simon Barker for a transformative 2-hour masterclass where you'll delve into the depths of rhythmic expression like never before. Barker's journey through the world of drumming, influenced by greats from the USA, mentorships in Korea and collaborations in Australia which has shaped a unique approach to rhythm that is both innovative and deeply personal.
In this masterclass, Barker will guide you through different approaches to creating original, drumming rhythms, beats and patterns. Drawing inspiration from improvised shapes, physical body motion, and fundamental drumming technique, Barker will offer ideas on how to integrate these elements.
Barker will also discuss practice philosophy, methods to organise transformational skill development, and approaches to improvising with rhythmic materials.
Whether you're a seasoned drummer looking to push boundaries or a novice eager to unlock new rhythmic possibilities, Barker's masterclass promises to expand your musical horizons and empower you to create rhythmic artistry from scratch. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the limitless potential within your drumming journey.
Join the Post-Masterclass Jam Session with Sydney's Leading Drum Improvisers
After the masterclass, we invite you to join a special post-session jam where you can showcase your newfound rhythmic knowledge alongside Sydney's leading drum improvisers. This is your chance to apply what you've learned, collaborate with fellow musicians, and explore the depths of spontaneous musical expression. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, create, and groove with some of the best in the business.
Booking link coming soon.
Date: Saturday 7 December
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