Musical feature Cover journeys

By Felicity Woodhill, the Wombarra founder of the Music and Tea concert series featuring emerging artists at Wollongong Art Gallery

From March 20 to 26, Harmony Week is an annual celebration of diversity. We believe music has an important role to play, contributing to harmony in a multicultural community.

Music and Tea at the Gallery participants have included a variety of ancestry, including Chinese, Estonian, Greek, Italian, Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese, Japanese, Norwegian and AngloCeltic, and the diversity continues to grow.

The music performed is drawn from many cultures; our audiences come from a diversity of backgrounds. The harmony of all cultures coming together is the foundation of the concerts.

For a short space of time once a month young artists perform for a music-loving audience, committed to nurturing our next generation of musicians. Live music is a participatory process for performer and audience alike and the concert’s atmosphere is created through exchanges between the two.

The music performed will represent different emotions and moods. Sometimes it will be discordant and sometimes joyous; each participant has the space to connect individually, but also forms part of the collective experience; a coming together to share and enjoy music.

Can you remember when music was not part of your life?

There was always piano music in our home as my brothers were learning; I began playing at a very young age. My aunt also played the violin, often practising Bach and Vivaldi; visiting her home always inspired me, forging a desire to learn. The violin is in my heritage; my Great Grandmother was a violinist and teacher, and I play her violin.

What is most challenging for you, and what is most rewarding?

A very challenging aspect of music is finding satisfaction when I know there are ways to improve. I have always loved the thrill of performing at Folk Festivals, the Wollongong Eisteddfod and with an orchestra. Part of the performance cycle is the build-up of adrenalin; nerves are always present no matter how prepared or experienced you are. Performing well and delivering excitement for an audience requires a delicate balance between perfection and freedom. Achieving this juxtaposition is demanding yet highly rewarding.

How has your experience helped you value initiatives such as Harmony Month?

Travelling for music has amplified my exposure and understanding of different cultures. Music grows through a fusion of cultures, and whilst this often leads to a celebration of diversity, racial and gender prejudices can still be found; an example was the rejection of African Americans as classical musicians, yet classical musicians absorbed jazz into their music. Nina Simone is a famous example; she turned to jazz after being refused entry to a music school. Music can polarise people, such as the intense patriotic music in war. However, music can and does connect people and help break down cultural differences. Harmony Month reminds us that we can’t sit in our comfort zone; we must look for ways to reach out to others through art.

Luke, 19, from Bomaderry, studies

Music and Medical Science at the University of New England

Unlike many exceptional young musicians, you have yet to gravitate to Sydney. Is there a reason?

I explored studying in Sydney, but I realised it was unnecessary, given the opportunities available in my region and the cost of travelling in terms of time and finances. Staying local allows me more time for music and family. I have the privilege of studying with Professor Robert Constable AM for piano and Dr Jane McKellar for musicology, both of whom reside nearby. I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in the Steel City Strings and Southern Highlands Symphony Orchestra and perform at various events, including the Wollongong and Shoalhaven Eisteddfods and concerts at St. Jude’s, Bowral.

How much time do you commit to practice?

There was a time when I practised for six or more hours a day; not attending school made this possible. As a result, I progressed rapidly and developed an extensive repertoire. I am now studying for a double degree; my practice is around two hours per day. Yet I achieve a great deal. I have learnt that as a musician, I grow through my life experiences, not just practice.

What do you think makes a good recital program?

A good program engages the audience and should involve variety, cohesion, balance and personalisation. It should feature a variety of pieces that showcase the performer’s range and versatility and could include differing styles, composers or pieces of varying lengths and difficulties. A good recital has a sense of cohesion and flow. Pieces should be chosen and arranged to create a narrative or emotional arc. Finally, striking a balance between well-loved pieces and lesser-known works while reflecting the performer’s unique personality and artistic vision is important.

Annabel, 15, from Figtree, is