Ngarra-Burria Gala 2026

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

NARDI SIMPSON Wilga’s Last Dance (2019)

ERIC AVERY Gliding (2020)

ADAM MANNING Canvas (2024)

GARY WATLING Four Rivers (2024)

GABRIEL FROMYHR Interwoven Worlds (2024)

JAMES HENRY Zoom Meeting (2020)

MARK MUNK ROSS Colonisation of the Ibis (2025)

BRENDA GIFFORD Saltwater (2025)

WILL KEPA Sleepless Dreaming (2022)

AARON WYATTCumulus (2022)

ELIZABETH SHEPPARD Walken Rainbow from Kooranginy (2017)

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

MARLENE CUMMINS Starting Over (2021)

NICOLE SMEDE Garan (Wings of Birds) (2025)

TROY RUSSELL Nucoorilma (Apple Tree) (2017)

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

BRENDA GIFFORD Bardju (Footprints) (2017)

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