Seven new works commissioned by Decibel inspired by Julia Gillard’s term as Prime Minister

Eugene Goossens Hall, ABC Studios Ultimo.
November 8, 2014

After Julia was devised by Cat Hope (Artistic Director of Decibel, composer, current composer in residence at the Peggy Glanville-Hicks house) and took place at the Eugene Goosens Hall, ABC Centre Sydney last Saturday evening 8 November 2014 from 7:30pm. The event was inspired by the tenure of Julia Gillard as Prime Minister, and how her leadership inadvertently exposed gender discrimination in parliament, leading to highlighting of gender discrimination throughout the country. Seven composers were commissioned to respond to this premise.

The concert as a whole not only presented different reflections on Julia Gillard’s term, but 7 completely different approaches to composition. Julia Gillard was in attendance and this perhaps attracted an audience who would not normally be seen at such a contemporary music event. The kaleidoscope of styles presented was an excellent introduction to the multifaceted sound world contemporary composers work in.

The concert was introduced by ABC presenter, and composer (and the previous composer in residence at the Peggy Glanville-Hicks house) Julian Day.

Gail Priest opened the program. Audiences are more familiar with her works for electronics...