The MCO + Allara project brings together musicians from Melbourne Chamber Orchestra and powerful Yorta Yorta winyarr Allara Briggs-Pattison in a unique concert experience that authentically blends First Nations’ voices and perspectives with Classical music traditions.

Allara is a storyteller, composer, director, producer, musician and soundscape designer. She is fast emerging as an important First Nations musician of her generation and was the recipient of the Archie Roach Foundation Award for Emerging Talent (Music Victoria Awards 2021). Allara’s innovative music combines loops on the double bass with justice-driven spoken word poetry and simple yet punchy choruses, often including elements of Yorta Yorta language. It explores issues including equality, reconciliation and sustainability, and speaks to Blak justice and sovereignty.

This concert will premiere works created by Allara, in collaboration with Erkki Veltheim, for voice and string quintet. This new music will be presented alongside musical works that respond to, complement and amplify Allara’s unique and important voice.