Charlotte Varcoe
MUSIC lovers have had their chance at creating a unique song through an innovative project hosted by LIMEFM.
Throughout the events of the Mount Gambier Agricultural and Horticultural Show, staff of the not-for-profit radio station gave children the opportunity to experience music making from the groovebox machine enabling them to produce their own song.
More than 70 students entered the competition with the top three songs being premiered on the local radio station earlier this week.
Taking out the top spot was Mount Gambier youth Noah who received first place said he entered the competitions after experiencing the groovebox machines at the Mount Gambier Library.
“I just saw the stand at the show and went over and gave it a go,” Noah said.
“I really enjoy the creativity aspect of the grooveboxes and just messed around with the sounds to make the song.”
Securing second place was Jordan who attempted the musical machines for the first time.
“I ended up just pressing buttons and having fun,” Jordan said.
“I haven’t used one before but thought it was pretty cool and I might want to keep using them in the future.”
LIMEFM station manager Rohan Battersby said the idea for the competition came following the success of the groovebox club held regularly at the library.
Mr Battersby said the station had previously held a similar competition at a local school and decided to host it once again in a larger capacity.
“We thought it would generate a lot of engagement and interest while also being fun and easy for the kids,” Mr Battersby said.
“It was a successful little access point for children and parents to interact with us at our exhibit and our groovebox club at the library continues to grow.”
The machines allow users to experiment with producing music with four drum beats, synthesizers and a large tonal palette.
“Kids who use it absolutely love it and it really encourages them to pursue music in a simple format,” Mr Battersby said.
