Now in its second year, AMPlify: Ngarra-Burria (First Peoples Composers Initiative 2018) is aimed at supporting and mentoring emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander composers in new music and jazz.

AMPlify: Ngarra-Burria (First Peoples Composers Initiative 2018) had its first iteration in 2017 and is a collaboration between the Australian Music Centre, Moogahlin Performing Arts, Australian National University and Ensemble Offspring. Supported by APRA AMCOS, the participants are mentored in 2018 by Chris Sainsbury, Kim Cunio and Ensemble Offspring.

The program is aimed at supporting and mentoring emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander composers in developing new techniques and skills in instrumental composition and notation, as well as industry knowledge and relationships to build their craft and networks into the future.

Ngarra-Burria are Dharug words meaning to hear, to sing, and this program is intended to build bridges for First Peoples’ musicians to step forward, further develop their composing skills, and connect with the art music sector. Originally called Indigenous Composers Initiative, the program was initiated in 2017 by Aboriginal composer Chris Sainsbury, and the words ‘art music’ here refers to the vast spectrum of contemporary classical/new music, contemporary original jazz and improvisatory practice, experimental practice, including sound art and installation, computer music, and more.

In April 2018 the first batch of compositions from 2017 was toured to Brewarinna by Ensemble Offspring and presented as part of the Baiame’s Ngunnhu Festival. For the remainder of 2018, we again collaborate with the same team of five composers from around Australia – Brenda Gifford, Troy Russell, Elizabeth Sheppard, Tim Gray and Rhyan Clapham. Throughout 2018 their new works for voice, violin, clarinet and piano will be workshopped at Eora College, recorded at the ANU School of Music and then showcased in a concert at Eora College.