Hand to Earth heads to Berlin

Pitched in January 2021, Hand to Earth is a contemporary music collaboration from the Australian Art Orchestra. First Nations Australian, Daniel Wilfred, is the keeper of Yolngu manikay (ceremonial songs) that can be traced back for over 40,000 years. He forms an effortless rapport with Korean singer, Sunny Kim, that spans continents and cultures and yet expresses a deeply human commonality. Their vocal approaches are melded into the electronic atmospheres created by trumpeter and composer, Peter Knight, who draws on the minimalism of Brian Eno and Jon Hassell to create a bed for these beautifully contrasting voices. Together they sing of the stars, of fire, and of the cooling rain, against Peter Knight’s floating trumpet notes and electronic crackles.

The piece went to Pierre Boulez Saal in June, 2022. The tour was followed by an intensive creative residency between the Australian Art Orchestra and four UK musicians, courtesy of the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival. 

You can click and view the project video here!

With a proven track record for success. ISPA's Pitch New Works program continues to assist works in development with securing touring dates, regional agents, co-commissions, premiere, and more. If you are interested in the project, contact Jerry Remkes, Executive Producer, Australian Art Orchestra at jerry@aao.com.au or (+61) (409) 797852