MUSIC is an international language and as a jazz musician and globe trotter, Maryanne Piper knows that more than most.
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She's spent more time as a foreigner than she has as a local, but after COVID-19 saw her move back to Tamworth after two decades abroad, she found it hard to make friends outside of an office, sports team or education.
So, she took it upon herself to start New England International Circle, a Facebook page to connect new and returned residents, expats, locals, travellers, global minds and kindred spirits.
"The idea is that anyone can sign up, if you're new in town and you don't know anybody and want to go to a movie, you go along and you meet," she said.
"This is a way to connect people so they feel like they have an entry point to meet different people, if you're from a place you aren't necessarily looking for new people because you've already got your life.
"It's not necessarily a bad thing, it's just the way people are."
The first event in April was a Flamenco Travels night, accompanied by live music including a flamenco guitar and taste of Spain food boxes.
In August, Ms Piper hopes to host a taste of salsa with a Cuban-themed event.
She left Tamworth in 2003 to pursue her dreams as a professional jazz clarinet and saxophone player, living in Europe, Germany and the UK.
The first thing she had to do to make friends in most countries was to join an internet group.
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"It's quite difficult to come into contact with people if you're not in a university situation or an office," she said.
"That was exactly the help I needed in Germany, you're in a new system and you need to know how it works - if you don't have a family you have to find other ways to come into contact with the information.
"I've been away for almost 20 years and things change, the town changes or people change. It's really like coming back and making a fresh start again."
The page already has more than 200 followers and is open to anyone who is interested in making friends, music, travel and food.
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Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
