Good Vibrations

Arafura Music Collective makes a gentle return in 2024, kicking off their annual program with two beautiful performances of Balance and Harmony. Immerse yourself in the relaxing sounds of the Collective as they guide you on a peace-seeking musical journey, featuring some exciting new local compositions.

^{By Tierney Seccull}

ARAFURA MUSIC COLLECTIVE Creative Director Claire Kilgarrif says music has the power to reach us on a spiritual level, and is the inspiration behind the performance.

“Balance and Harmony promises an unforgettable immersive experience of different musical perspectives, where we explore through music the delicate equilibrium that connects our inner and outer worlds.”

Taking centre stage is Johann Sebastian Bach's timeless composition, Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G, characterising balance and harmony through its intricate interplay of instruments. Featuring a small group of soloists – three violins, three violas, and three cellos – the instruments engage in harmonious dialogue to signify the balance we seek within ourselves, and through the interactions we have with the external world.

Lost Country by Kamilaroi composer Adam Manning is a wonderful addition to the program, in which the fiery passion of Flamenco meets the serene contemplation of Japanese Zen.

“It contributes another perspective on the concepts of balance and harmony, bridging ancient traditions with contemporary expression,” Kilgarrif says.

"Through [Manning’s] music, balance emerges – a delicate dance between heritage and innovation. His music is balanced by music."

The music of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, a maestro of the Renaissance era who sought to evoke spiritual equilibrium, is balanced with exciting new works by Territory composers Netanela Mizrahi and Annette Anderson. Kilgarrif says the works were created specifically for the occasion.

“In celebration of the perspectives of women composers, we have commissioned new works, in which our audience is invited to take part in the process of seeking and contributing to a state of balance and harmony.”

If you’d really like to bliss out, bring along your yoga mat and get comfortable, as the sweet sounds of Arafura Collective wash over you. There are just two performances of this immersive experience, and they differ slightly. Either way, Balance and Harmony is something serenity seekers shouldn’t miss.

Balance and Harmony

WHEN SAT 16 MAR | 4PM
AT PALMERSTON SENIOR COLLEGE
COST $22.50 | $20 CONC | $10 U18 FREE U12

WHEN SUN 17 MAR | 5PM
AT SUPREME COURT, DARWIN
COST $38.50 | $34 CONC | $10 U18 FREE U12

INFO facebook.com/arafuramusiccollective

_{Photos: Paz Tassone}