Two Worlds

In 2020, Australia marked the 250th anniversary of James Cook’s voyage to the Great Southern Land. Cook has been celebrated for his contributions to science, cartography and exploration. However, his “voyage of discovery” also signalled a turning point for the original custodians of the land, sparking dispossession, displacement, and devastation of Australia’s First Nations peoples.

Yet, this is also a story of resilience, strength and hope. The story of Australia’s First Nations peoples is a story beyond just survival. It is one that is testament to the enduring nature and importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ ties to culture, family, community, the land and the waters. This is the story to be celebrated in a concert that is built on the strengths of First Nations peoples, while also acknowledging the impact of the Two Worlds on both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

The Two Worlds program will include music by Stephen Leek, Gordon Hamilton (with William Barton), Michael Atherton, Peter Sculthorpe, and Dan Walker, as well as the premier of a new work by Chris Sainsbury and Darryl Griffen specially commissioned for this concert.

The program was developed by a member of the Chorale and the Music Director, in respectful consultation and engagement with Indigenous people, recognised cultural advisors and local authorities.

The Two Worlds concert will be performed twice by the chorale, with flute music by Ross Edwards performed by Sally Walker.

Concert also performed on Saturday 20 August 2022, Generator Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre.