Description
Ngarra-Burria are Dharug words meaning to hear, to sing, and this program is intended to build bridges for First Peoples’ musicians to step forward, further develop their composing skills, and connect with the art music sector. Initiated in 2017 by Aboriginal composer Christopher Sainsbury with partners Moogahlin Performing Arts, Australian Music Centre, ANU and Ensemble Offspring, Ngarra-Burria is aimed at supporting and mentoring emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander composers in developing new techniques and skills in instrumental composition and notation, as well as industry knowledge and relationships. Mentors in 2020 are Christopher Sainsbury, Jessica Wells and Kevin Hunt. The first cohort of composers (2017-2018) were Brenda Gifford, Troy Russell, Elizabeth Sheppard, Tim Gray and Rhyan Clapham and this concert will feature the second cohort of impressive First Nations musical voices from around Australia – from Redfern to Darwin!
PROGRAM
Nardi Simpson – new works
Eric Avery – new works
James Henry – new works
Marlene Cummins – new works
Will Keppa – new works
ENSEMBLE OFFSPRING
Claire Edwardes (percussion)
Jason Noble (clarinet)
Lamorna Nightingale (flute)
Freya Schack-Arnott (cello)
QUOTES
“I hope that you may hear and understand that Aboriginal composers can cut it. The outcomes we hope for are connections and opportunities for our composers – relationships, networks and work. It is time. The non-Aboriginal composer practice of Aboriginal referencing needs a gentle correction. It should still have a place, but based on long term and respectful engagement.” Christopher Sainsbury
