Since 2017, Ngarra-Burria: First Peoples Composers has embodied deep listening and a bright future for Australian art music, nurturing a growing community of First Nations composers. In 2026, we celebrate ten years of cultural continuity, collaboration and creativity through Ngarra-Burria with a deadly Gala Concert at Eugene Goossens Hall, ABC Ultimo. Experience the bridges Ngarra-Burria has built over the past 10 years, between forms, genres, stories and generations, with a “best of” collection of First Nations chamber works written especially for and with Ensemble Offspring. Performed with clarity, flair and heart, this music speaks to Country, connection and the evolving future of an Australian sound.

“Too Deadly” — Limelight

“The sheer diversity of styles, some incorporating jazz, percussion, repetitive and vocal elements, ensures variety and attraction.” — The Australian

“...when First Nations artists are given space to lead, what emerges is a true reflection of the land." - Happy Mag

Program

BRENDA GIFFORD Bardju (Footprints) (2017)

ERIC ACVERY Gliding (2020)

JAMES HENRY Zoom Meeting (2020)

MARK MUNK ROSS Colonisation of the Ibis (2025)

WILL KEPA Sleepless Dreaming (2022)

AARON WYATTCumulus (2022)

TROY RUSSELL Nucoorilma (Apple Tree) (2017)

NARDI SIMPSON Of Stars and Birds (2020)

BRENDA GIFFORD Saltwater (2025)

ELIZABETH SHEPPARD Walken Rainbow from Kooranginy (2017)

TIM GRAY Lupe! (A Serial Killer’s Mind Part 1 & Part 2) (2017)

GARY WATLING Lotte (2024)

RHYAN CLAPHAM I Think I Can Float (2025, arr. 2026)

MARLENE CUMMINS Starting Over (2021)

Concert Duration: 90 minutes

Performers

Claire Edwardes (Artistic Director, percussion)

Jason Noble (clarinets)

Lamorna Nightingale (flutes)

Ronan Apcar (piano)

Rowena Macneish (cello)

Sonya Holowell (Host, First Nations Director)

Tim Gray (Host)

Ticket Prices

General Admission $20*

Concession $10* (Proof of concession required)

MobTix FREE for First Nations Attendees

*Booking fees apply

Photo: Nicole Smede by Keith Saunders

Contact the host of Ngarra-Burria Gala 2026