A meditation on the spiritual, cultural and environmental significance of water, this program pairs Handel’s Water Music with the world premiere of a new work by Arnhem Land ocean and waterway custodian Rrawun Maymuru and Nick Wales. Titled Nguy Gapu (Ocean Water) this is the first time the ABO is performing with a soloist in Yolŋu language (read our interview on page 63). The program also includes Wales’s Harbour Light and Cloud Beneath the Sea by ARIA Award-winning composer Sophie Hutchings. Paul Dyer directs.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

Precious, life-giving, pure. In a profound celebration of water, the Brandenburg explores an homage to water’s spiritual and cultural significance as the foundation of our existence and survival: the essential element of life.

A powerful and resonant tribute from seasoned collaborators. Rrawun Maymuru, an ocean and waterway custodian hailing from East Arnhem Land debuting an original composition created with Nick Wales, a classically trained contemporary composer. Sung in the language of the Yolngu people, this heartfelt ode to water promises to echo deep within the soul of every listener.

The homage continues with the Brandenburg’s vibrant rendition of Handel’s complete Water Music masterpiece brought to life with the Orchestra’s signature celebratory exuberance.

This performance serves as an experiential meditation on our custodial duty to our world. Through music and song, the Brandenburg explores the crucial themes of water’s essence, and our collective responsibility to cherish, conserve and protect it.