LED by internationally-acclaimed percussionist Claire Edwardes, leading new music group Ensemble Offspring will present a concert like no other in Coffs Harbour on Sunday, 25 May.
“Many readers will have seen Claire’s solo marimba concert last year and been dazzled by her high voltage performance,” said Coffs Harbour Music Society.President Leigh Summers.
Now Claire brings to Coffs Harbour a line-up of fearless instrumentalists, all soloists in their own right: Lamorna Nightingale on flutes, Jason Noble on clarinets and Rowena Macneish on cello.
Together with Claire these multi-award-winning musical trailblazers will present a program of new music by First Nations composers Brenda Gifford, Nardi Simpson, Nicole Smede and more.
“This not to be missed concert will share stories of culture, land, and identity, using contemporary chamber music richly informed by the deep-rooted traditions of First Nations storytelling,” Leigh said.
“Claire and her ensemble recognise and subvert the inequality of opportunities afforded to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander composers in comparison to those afforded to non-Indigenous artists.
“The ensemble joyfully promotes and celebrates the enormous value that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists can offer the broader arts sector and cultural landscape.”
Instead of the Music Society’s usual pre-concert talk, Ensemble Offspring will hold an improvisation workshop from 11:30am to 1pm at St John Paul College Theatre.
“Thanks to a grant from the City of Coffs Harbour the workshop is free,” Leigh said.
“No prior experience is necessary.
“People of all ages and abilities are warmly invited to attend, just bring your instrument and be prepared to have great fun with these world class musicians.”
Following the workshop, the concert begins at 3pm at the St John Paul College Theatre.
For more information and tickets contact Coffs Harbour Music Society.
