MANDOLYNOS (1986-2011) by Johannes Dimyadi

Mandolynos was a small plucked-string ensemble associated with the Auckland Mandolinata Orchestra Inc. (AMO), founded in 1986 by Iris Jeffreys, a long-standing member of the orchestra. The group was formed to take on engagements where it was impractical for the full AMO orchestra to participate or when the orchestra was unavailable. Comprising AMO members and friends who were available during the day, Mandolynos maintained an active performance schedule from its inception, delighting audiences with a selection of old favourites. Their fun-loving spirit made them especially popular at rest homes, retirement villages, local community events, and private functions.


Members (including casual players) were Iris Jeffries (leader/orchestra's life member/mandolin), Ted Smith (arranger/mandolin/mandola/bouzouki), Sealy Wood (mandolin), Elsie Blythe (liaison/mandolin), John Petrie (accordion), Ashley Pepperell (vocal), Jack Grant-Mackie (MC/vocal), Shona Caughey (Liuto), Margaret Gordon (vocal), Diana Grant-Mackie (mandola), Heather Kaufmann (mandola/mandolin), Henry Kitchingman (guitar/violin), Rene Donovan (guitar), Alexa Kitchingman (accordion), Loryn Pepperell (mandolin), Patrick Brosnan (mandola/violin).


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