Bush Telegraph
New Zealand and Australia’s musical heritage is thriving in the hands of BUSH TELEGRAPH, a four or five piece band, delighting local and international audiences of all ages with rollicking, toe-tapping country/folk music and woolshed dancing. The band brings a fresh approach to Kiwi and Australian music, blending the strong Celtic, Bush and Country influences with innovative and exciting arrangements of original and traditional songs. This unique fusion of musical styles stimulates the senses, setting bodies and feet in motion from the opening bars. Their singing, instrumental mastery, teaching and dance calling becomes a truly memorable and enjoyable experience, which is sure to be revisited long after the show has ended.
The group has been widely praised and complimented for its presentation in reviving and preserving the social atmosphere and music of the early New Zealand BARN and WOOLSHED dances, which were so popular with our original settlers and pioneers. For this no prior knowledge or ability is required, as all dances are explained, taught and demonstrated by the band’s caller, who has over 30 years experience in this field throughout Australia and New Zealand. Many of the songs and dances have been collected, adapted, re-arranged or composed by the group’s vocalist and leader PHIL GARLAND, who is a multi award winning entertainer and internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter in his own right.
BUSH TELEGRAPH has performed in concert throughout Australia and New Zealand as well as entertaining at wine and food festivals - international trade conventions - school performances music festivals – weddings - country hoedowns and major tourist promotions. They have a programme tailored to suit every occasion, while their presentation and musicianship frequently leaves audiences calling for more. Consequently many bookings are repeated on a regular basis.