Local musician brings smiles to Anglicare Albany as part of Statewide micro-gig initiative

Clients and staff at Anglicare Albany enjoyed a private concert from local singer-songwriter Kris Nelson on Wednesday, in the latest instalment of the Minderoo Foundation’s micro-gig initiative.

In collaboration with West Australian Music, 40 concerts have been held across WA, with local musicians serenading small crowds in women’s refuges, shelters and community centres.

The program not only aims to bring joy to the community but provides critical work for musicians whose incomes were slashed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the final phase of the program, 20 performances are set to pop up across regional WA, including in Albany.

Minderoo Foundation co-founder Nicola Forrest said she was thrilled the program was continuing.

“By working with WAM, we are helping artists across the State get back to work and sharing the joy of music with WA communities,” she said.

“We’ve been delighted with the response to the micro gigs so far.”

Anglicare WA Bridges Program’s Dee Reynolds said the concert was a wonderful opportunity for their clients to reconnect during COVID-19.

“They’ve been able to interact closely with the musician and talk about life and music,” she said.

“Staff also attended and appreciated the break from the intense work they do every day.

“We are very appreciative of being selected for a micro gig, especially being a country location.”