Making Music Matter in the Goldfields

In September 2025, the Goldfields came alive with the sound of music and laughter when Musica Viva Australia In Schools show Timmy and the Breakfast Band brought its energetic, music-infused circus performance to over 1,100 students at nine schools from the city of Kalgoorlie to Boulder.

Timmy and the Breakfast Band is the story of Timmy, an ordinary schoolboy who hears music in his head wherever he goes. Banjo-playing acrobat Gareth Bjaaland plays Timmy alongside musicians Rachel Johnston (cello) and Trent Arkleysmith (mandolin). Together, the trio delivers fast-paced performances that blend movement, humour and live music while demonstrating how music can reflect and impact on your thoughts, actions and moods.

This year’s tour across the WA Goldfields was as memorable for the performers as it was for the students, because it marked the band’s final tour for Musica Viva Australia, after a six year adventure around the country. Their farewell performances were met with warmth and enthusiasm at every stop, leaving a lasting impression on a generation of young Australians. 

This tour was only possible because of the support of AngloGold Ashanti, who have been partnering Musica Viva Australia since 2018 to bringing high-quality music education to schools throughout the Goldfields region. Thanks to this partnership, students enjoy shows like Timmy and the Breakfast Band at a reduced cost, while teachers have access to free online and live workshops for teachers which help to build teacher confidence and capacity, making sure music is a vital part of classroom life. Every show also comes with a comprehensive range of videos, lesson plans and classroom activities, accessible via Musica Viva Australia’s Education Resource Platform, available long after the artists have left town.  

Josie McCafferty, Specialist Community Engagement Manager at AngloGold Ashanti, attended a performance at O’Connor Education Support Centre. Her verdict: “It was a great performance, and it was wonderful to see the positive impact Musica Viva Australia is making.”

The partnership with AngloGold Ashanti continues to grow stronger each year, bringing connection, creativity and cultural experiences to communities that may otherwise miss out. Musica Viva Australia remains committed to enriching young lives through music, and deeply grateful for the invaluable support of partners like AngloGold Ashanti.

Together, we’re nurturing creativity, empowering teachers, and building a future where music and the arts are part of every child’s education, no matter where they live.

As we celebrate 80 years of Musica Viva Australia, we invite you to play your part in ensuring that the joy of music continues to reach young people, teachers and communities across the country.

To make a donation or to discuss making a gift, please contact Zoe Cobden-Jewitt: zcobden-jewitt@musicaviva.com.au