Music recorded in fine studios is great, but music done by ordinary folk who would be gathered around the piano for a singalong is great too, and that is the Hillbilly Hoot in a nutshell. The Hoot, one of Three D Radio's longest-running programs, is lightly curated open mic, live-to-air broadcast that takes place every Monday evening at the Linde Reserve bandshell (corner of Nelson St and Paynehem
Rd, Stepney). It is peopled by a gang of regulars, newcomers, travelling musicians -- essentially anyone who comes along on the night. We never know who will turn up, and we don't audition -- we just welcome anyone along who would like to sing/play a song. Note we may be operating under COVID-19 restrictions so check for the most recent posts. There are two ways people can take part: as an audient or as a performer. Audients can just rock up around 8pm to enjoy the evening's entertainment. Performers should turn up by about 7.30 with a song to sing (and a songsheet or chord chart if they would like accompaniment, as there are always folks able and willing to lend a voice or strings or something), and sign up with the night's compere -- usually the cheerfully frazzled person with the clipboard and maybe a funny hat. Note the Hoot is for acoustic instruments only -- pretty much anything unpowered that can be played into a mic. A piano is available. So, if you're after a unique musical happening (with a weekly chook raffle and, in the wintertime, a pot of hot soup and a campfire) look no further -- just come along to the Hillbilly Hoot and be prepared for our signature blend of the great and the raw.