The unique approach, in other words, means the use of cheap and what were often homemade instruments including kazoos, harmonicas, washboards and washtub basses, and eventually jugs that were used as the bass instrument.

Popular ‘jug bands’ performed in dance halls, on street corners, bars and at parties.

Residents can get a glimpse of Jugalug on Friday when the Dubbo Jazz Festival kicks off with a full program of events starting at the RSL club from 6pm.

The jazz continues on Saturday morning with the Centro jazz breakfast with ‘Benny’s Boys’, lunch at the Lazy River Estate with the Anita Harris Quartet followed by 2 Swing at Dundullimal Homestead.

The entertainment continues at the RSL club all day Saturday right up until 4pm on Sunday.

The Jugalug band members are Marcus Holden, Phil Donnison, Stewart Binsted, Adam Barnard and Stan Valacos - all accomplished musicians who have played with a variety of other jazz bands.

The festival, which is expected to raise almost $1 million for the city’s economy, is the 18th annual event and organiser Ross Tighe predicts more than 15,000 people will visit Dubbo during the three days.

Another band featuring at the festival for all three days is Red Hot Papa, consisting of six musicians.

The band is from the Central Coast and has recently performed for the Sydney Jazz Club, and the Central Coast and Wollongong jazz clubs.

More information on the Dubbo Jazz Festival and a program of events can be found by contacting the RSL club.

emily.wheeler

@ruralpre ss.com