QPAC

We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy. The foundations laid by these ancestors give strength, inspiration and courage to current and future generations, both First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, towards creating a better Queensland.

Clancestry Wata a gathering for songmen, improvising soloists and orchestra

31 Jul 2025, 7:30pm

Concert Hall

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$69 - $79 *

* A transaction fee of $7.50 applies.

1 hour 20 minutes

no interval, subject to change without notice

In one of the most innovative and energising works to emerge in 2024, composer and pianist Paul Grabowsky will bring Queensland Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Benjamin Northey, and Yolŋu songmen Daniel Ngukurr Boy Wilfred and David Yipininy Wilfred together in a work that celebrates the musical traditions of the Wagiluk people in Arnhem Land.

Wata is an invitation to experience a new form of musical collaboration within the manikay tradition, inside QPAC’s Concert Hall. It’s invigorating, spontaneous and life affirming. Experience the expansive warmth and astonishing musicality of Wata.

Wata is part of Clancestry. Find out more here.

Wata Concert Guide

Download the concert guide here [PDF 200KB]

Program

Wata: A Gathering for Manikay Performers, Improvising Soloists and Orchestra
Composed by Paul Grabowsky for a Wägiluk Djuwalpada Manikay shared and performed by Daniel Ngukurr Boy Wilfred (voice and bilma) and David Yipininy Wilfred (yidaki).

★★★★⯪

Wata showcases some superb solo improvisations by Knight on trumpet, Erkki Veltheim’s manic shredding on electric violin, Svoboda’s virtuosic bass and haunting vocalise, and Grabowsky’s solo piano.

Limelight
Powerful, ritualistic words sung clearly, improvised by soloists who vary and contrast the motifs, then echoed and re-echoed in music created by an empathetic composer who brings the different elements together so they connect to become what Paul Grabowsky describes as a “living, breathing, organic musical world.

Stage Whispers
Diverse as these musical languages are, this blend of ancient and modern gave potent voice to the desire for a more inclusive future, an aspiration affirmed by a standing ovation.

Sydney Morning Herald