The president of Blokes Notes says music is a great way for men to express themselves.
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“Historically Australian men are more renowned for participating in sport than expressing themselves and certainly most regard singing as a surprising method for Aussie men to be communicating,” Mr Mark Stewart said.
Blokes Notes was set up to provide an opportunity for men of all ages to meet and experience quality music making.
Mr Stewart said music making is a satisfying leisure activity. It also provides men with mental wellbeing and a social space for them to meet new people.
The men focus their energy on being entertaining.
“We are a community choir that takes all new comers,” Mr Stewart said.
“It's amazing the sound and notoriety we have achieved for a non-auditioned group.
“Our audiences love the novelty of seeing a bunch of men in full song.
“And the enjoyment is infectious.”
Mr Stewart was involved in music and singing groups at school but had a break from it for about 10 years while he studied at university and then entered the workforce.
He has now been performing with Blokes Notes for seven years.
The group supports the Port Macquarie-Hastings Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Service.
Mr Stewart said domestic violence is often painted as a women’s issue.
“In fact it’s a men’s issue as well and in fact if it’s not a men’s issue, it’s no one's issue.
“Domestic violence is largely perpetrated by men.
“It’s important for us to say it’s not acceptable.”
The Blokes Notes practice every Thursday during the school term at the Mac Adams Centre.
For more information email realmensinging@gmail.com