Narranga Primary School teacher Eric Stribley wowed the crowd with an array of cruisy tunes last Sunday afternoon at the Jetty Beach House.

The crowd immersed in the bluesy, country tones ranging from REM to John Farnham, Boy George and Michael Buble.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

The singer/guitarist has a dual identity of Mr Stribley the primary school teacher during the week and stage name ‘Party of One’ performing gigs at weekends.

Narranga Primary School student Jaida said the charismatic teacher makes maths fun.

“He’s always singing in class, everyone looks forward to his lessons,” she said.

“It makes Maths Online fun, I learn more when I’m having fun and enjoying the class”.

Mr Stribley moved from Geelong to the Coffs Coast earlier this year and brought his Party of One show with him, the reason for the move was simple.

“The weather!” he said, laughing.

The talented teacher effortlessly reeled off classic after classic and provided some insights into what goes into a three-hour set.

“I have around 160 songs which are four unique sets of music.

“So if you see me on Saturday and Sunday it will be a completely different range of songs and experience.

“I try to fit the songs with the character of the venue and the atmosphere of the crowd.

“It’s something I’ve picked up over time, I started playing drums in a blues band from the age of 15 and played in a duo in Geelong and Melbourne for over 25 years.

“I love playing music and found that it also compliments learning in the classroom, engagement levels and enthusiasm goes up significantly which is a win, win for everyone.”

There’s a good reason why Party of One is saved for the weekends.

“I tend to perform at the weekends otherwise I might lose my voice,” he said.

“A day in the classroom can take its toll on your vocal chords so I save Party of One for the weekends.

“When I stop enjoying playing live and think I have nothing left to offer, I’ll stop – I can’t see it happening,” he said.

By Dylan and David Wigley