Introduction to Peter Ellis

Peter Nicalous Ellis of Bendigo (b 1946) has been an avid collector and instructor of traditional and old time social dances and the relevant music in Australia since late 1970s. He has presented numerous workshops in both areas in several states and at many folk festivals including the National, Maldon, and Port Fairy.



Also a historian on the early social dance and music, he regularly provides articles and photographic material for Trad & Now.

He is a member of the Wedderburn Oldtimers Orchestra (since 1979, has led his own Emu Creek Bush Band since 1983, founded the Bush Dance & Music Club of Bendigo and through the auspices of both, who work hand in glove together, has produced numerous recordings of music for quadrilles, couple dances and the various country dances, including those of the 'bush dance revival'.

Much of his knowledge has come from a close acquaintance with the late Harry McQueen of Castlemaine.

Publications include the Collector's Choice series in 3 Volumes, Music Makes Me Smile (music and dances of the Nariel Valley), The Waltz, the Polka and all kinds of Dance Music and The Merry Country Dance. He has also made extensive collections for the National Library of Australia and his section on dance is said to be the most extensive.

Peter is a Laboratory Technician (Chemistry) who has worked at LaTrobe University Bendigo and its former Technical College and CAE as well as local Secondary Colleges and has recently retired from Bendigo Senior Secondary College. He has interests in Natural History, is an avid photographer in that area and a connoisseur of fine food and wine.