A powerful concert experience intertwining ancient First Nations stories with contemporary reflections on land, identity, and resilience through string quartet and voice.
Ongoing activity
Melbourne Recital Centre, 31 Sturt St Southbank 3006
$20-$70
Experience a captivating concert that blends the haunting beauty of string quartet music with evocative First Nations voices. This performance weaves ancient stories and languages from the Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung peoples with contemporary compositions that explore deep connections to land and identity.
The program features works by Dr Lou Bennett AM and Paul Stanhope, including sacred stories of life, loss, and rematriation, alongside a lament inspired by the Kimberley region’s Bunuba community. This is a unique opportunity to witness a First Nations-led collaboration that honors culture and country.
Prepare to be moved by the emotional depth and atmospheric power of this award-winning song cycle, recognized for its outstanding collaboration and artistic excellence.
The concert lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering a rich and immersive musical journey. It includes pieces performed in Dja Dja Wurrung, Djab Wurrung, and Yorta Yorta languages, providing a rare cultural insight.
Artists featured include Dr Lou Bennett AM (voice) and the Australian String Quartet, comprising Dale Barltrop and Francesca Hiew (violins), Chris Cartlidge (viola), and Michael Dahlenburg (cello).
Content warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that the performance includes stories of the deceased.
Held at the Melbourne Recital Centre, located at 31 Sturt Street, Southbank, Victoria 3006, this venue offers wheelchair access and accommodates assistance animals. Audio description services are available to enhance accessibility.
The centre is well serviced by public transport and has parking options nearby. Directions can be found on the Melbourne Recital Centre website.
Tickets are limited to six per online order to ensure fair access. Larger groups can book by calling the Box Office during business hours.
A transaction fee applies to online and phone orders, and delivery fees may also be charged. The program includes a mix of commissioned works and collaborations with Indigenous custodians.
The event is supported by Creative Victoria and the Australian Government through Creative Australia, highlighting its cultural significance.
Ticket prices are tiered as follows:
- Premium: $70
- A Reserve: $60
- B Reserve: $50
- Under 40: $40
- Mobtix: $20
Booking is available online or by phone. Early booking is recommended due to limited availability and high demand for this acclaimed performance.
