World premiere orchestral performance for NAIDOC week
Image: Australian Youth Orchestra. Image: Edify Media
The Australian Youth Orchestra will present the first full orchestral performance of Ngapa William Cooper, a stunning collaborative work between Nigel Westlake, singer-songwriter Lior, and performer and academic Dr. Lou Bennett AM.
Ngapa William Cooper made its debut at the 2023 Adelaide Festival and delves into the resilience and compassion of Yorta Yorta activist Uncle William Cooper. In 1938, Cooper led the Australian Aborigines’ League in an unprecedented non-Jewish protest against the atrocities of Kristallnacht in Nazi Germany. Through a fusion of English and Yorta Yorta language, this production celebrates a man whose legacy embodies resistance, unity, and empathy.
The concert commences with Westlake’s The Glass Soldier, originally composed for Hannie Rayson’s play of the same name. This heartfelt composition is dedicated to the memory of Nelson Ferguson, an artist and WW1 veteran, and was commissioned by Ferguson’s grandson, Don Farrands.
It will be followed by the orchestral premiere of Beneath the Waves featuring Westlake’s distilled score from the 2022 film Blueback. Renowned cellist, Sharon Grigoryan will feature as soloist.
The Sydney performance of Ngapa William Cooper will coincide with the performance in Canberra, both timed to occur during NAIDOC Week.
NAIDOC Week serves as an opportunity for all Australians to learn about the rich cultures and histories of First Nations people. BlakTix, will offer discounted tickets for First Nations audience members for both performances.
