Clint Bracknell, a Noongar musician and language revivalist, is set to lead a unique collaboration at the 2023 Perth Festival with the renowned Kronos Quartet. Bracknell, also known as Maatakitj, has a rich background in ethnomusicology and linguistics, combined with a Doctor of Philosophy in Music from the University of Western Australia (UWA). His diverse musical interests range from rock and roll to composing for theatre, reflecting his deep connection to his Noongar musical heritage.
Professor Bracknell’s involvement in various creative projects showcases his commitment to preserving and promoting Noongar culture. Notable collaborations include the Noongar adaptation of Macbeth titled Hecate and the film dub project Fist of Fury Noongar Daa, both groundbreaking initiatives for Australian languages. His recent project, Noongar Wonderland, featured a fusion of Noongar songs with electronic beats, demonstrating his innovative approach to music production.
The theme of the traveling song, explored in a podcast co-hosted by Bracknell, serves as the inspiration for his upcoming collaboration with the Kronos Quartet. This concept harks back to a time when traveling corroborees were a prominent musical tradition in Australia, uniting diverse communities through shared melodies. Bracknell aims to infuse the quartet’s performance with elements of Noongar music, emphasizing irregular meter, descending melodies, and the lyrical beauty of the Noongar language.
The Kronos Quartet, known for pushing artistic boundaries and embracing cultural diversity, brings a wealth of experience to the collaboration. With a history of innovative projects, such as collaborations with artists like Tanya Tagaq and Trio Da Kali, the quartet is renowned for redefining the traditional string quartet format. Bracknell’s composition for the Festival draws on his cultural heritage and the resilience of indigenous languages, offering audiences a multifaceted musical experience grounded in place and tradition.
Reflecting on the significance of incorporating Noongar language and instruments into his work, Bracknell underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of linguistic homogenization. By collaborating with esteemed composers and drawing on his academic journey, which includes mentorship from senior cultural figures, Bracknell strives to create a platform for sharing Noongar performance and language resources.
Professor Bracknell’s performance at the Perth Festival 2023 promises to be a celebration of indigenous culture and musical innovation. Through his collaboration with the Kronos Quartet, he not only highlights the richness of Noongar heritage but also underscores the importance of cultural preservation and creative expression in a rapidly changing world.
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