Biwaawa (2023) by Brenda Gifford, Melbourne String Ensemble at The Edge, Fed Square, Melbourne 2023

Melbourne String Ensemble Directed by Fintan Murphy
Biwaaawa by Brenda Gifford
Inspired by Dhagarwa (winter), Yuin
Commissioned in 2023 by Melbourne String Ensembles as part of The Seasons Project
The Seasons 2, The Edge, Fed Square, Melbourne, 2 December 2023
Supported by City of Melbourne Arts Grants
The Seasons Project
Conceived in 2021 with the aim of broadening our understanding and representation of indigenous seasons, The Seasons Project commissions new works inspired by the diverse seasons of Country in Australia. These works are curated within performance and education programs, inviting audiences to explore the narratives and cultural significance of the seasons. By delving into the perceptions and stories surrounding each season, the project offers an opportunity to deepen connections to culture and the environment. The Seasons Project premiered in 2022 with a collection of season-inspired works for string orchestra, composed by First Nations artists. These compositions were paired in performance with Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, creating a dialogue between traditional and contemporary perspectives. The works were commissioned and performed by The Melbourne String Ensemble.
Original Concept Caitlin Williams. Developed and realised by Caitlin Williams, Creative Producer and Fintan Murphy, MSE Artistic Director & Conductor.
mse.org.au/pro...
Composers Notes
"Biwaaawa (cold east wind in the Dhurga language). Biwaawa is strongest in Dhagarwa (winter). Sweeping up off the ocean to the headland and beyond. It can be biting and very cold."
This piece is about my connection to country and the Gambambara (seasons) and elements that are part of that. It is cyclic and comes from my culture. I am Yuin."
Brenda Gifford, 2023
CONCERT PROGRAM
Boonwurrung Welcome Song by James Henry.
Lyrics by Jarra Steele, Translation by Aunty Faye Muir.
String Arrangement by Taran Carter*
Vocalist James Henry
Commissioned by the Boon Wurrung Foundation and the
Footscray Community Arts Centre for the Due West Festival 2019
Arrangement for String Orchestra commissioned by The Seasons Project in 2022
Djeran for solo viola and string orchestra by Aaron Wyatt (World Premiere*)
Inspired by Noongar Country (April-May)
Soloist Stefanie Farrands
Biwaawa by Brenda Gifford*
Inspired by Dhagarwa (winter), Yuin Country
Recomposed by Max Richter Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Spring
Smith’s Alchemy by Carl Vine
The Seasons Project commissioned works
Video by James Henry