THE upbeat tunes of the Happy Wonderers old time band will add to the festive atmosphere at this year’s show.
In what’s set to be a jam-packed program of live entertainment, the Happy Wonderers is one of the many acts set to entertain crowds throughout the two-day event.
The band formed in Swan Hill more than a decade ago and was inspired by Music Muckabout sessions at the Pioneer Settlement.
These sessions aimed to encourage likeminded entertainers and musicians to come together and create music.
Through this, music connections were made, friendships were formed, and so too was the Happy Wonderers.
Keith Chisholm was a founding member of the band and has always had a love of music.
“I’ve always loved the drums, from a very young age but my parents wouldn’t buy me a drum set,” he said.
Settling for saucepans and wooden spoons, Mr Chisholm perfected his skills.
It was a former Swan Hill police officer, who was part of the big band, who further cemented Mr Chisholm’s love of music and the drums.
“I remember belting up there on my bike to see him play,” Mr Chisholm said.
“I don’t think my mouth closed the whole time he played. I was in awe.”
Inspired by this meeting, Mr Chisholm continued to pursue his passion.
“The police officer gave me his drum sticks and I still have them to this day,” he said.
At the ripe age of 14, Mr Chisholm was called to perform at Swan Hill’s Royal Hotel and that kickstarted his music career.
“I wasn’t even allowed to have a drink but there was good, solid crowds back then,” he said.
With the money he earnt, he purchased his first drum kit, a three piece Boston set for $120, which he later added to.
“There was nothing I didn’t love about it,” Mr Chisholm said.
“I thought I was king.”
Playing for various bands and at numerous events throughout the district, Mr Chisholm enjoyed every moment.
When the opportunity came about to form the Happy Wonderers, Mr Chisholm jumped at the chance and has been with the band ever since.
While some of the original members have since passed away, the band has continued to evolve over the years with the addition of new band members, including Mr Chisholm’s wife, Marilyn.
The band plays at Pioneer Settlement weekly and performs at nursing homes and other events throughout Swan Hill.
Over the years they have helped to raise funds for various causes, including the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal and motor neurone disease.
