Decline in live music at weddings and funerals linked to cost of living crisis, dwindling music education

For more than seven decades, Mary Sutcliffe's music was a regular soundtrack to the joyous and tearful milestones unfolding in her small country town.

Since moving to Narrandera in southern New South Wales in the 1950s, Ms Sutcliffe has played piano at more weddings, funerals and graduations than she can count.

The 82-year-old has a box tucked away in her home filled to the brim with funeral pamphlets – mementos from her performances.

"When I look back and think of all the things I have done, I can't believe it," Ms Sutcliffe said.