Des Cannings' new composition explores Indigenous Voice themes
Trombone player and composer Des Cannings presents 'Voices Heard And Unheard' on ABC Jazz, inspired by the 2023 Indigenous Voice referendum.
Musical response to national events
The newly commissioned work, 'Voices Heard And Unheard', marks a significant milestone in the career of Des Cannings. The composition serves as a musical reflection on the Australian Indigenous Voice referendum held in 2023.
Cannings, a recognised figure in the Australian music community, describes the referendum as a defining moment that influenced his personal perspective and creative direction. The piece aims to capture the complexities of the national conversation surrounding Indigenous representation.
Broadcast on ABC Jazz
The commission is being featured as part of the programming on ABC Jazz. The broadcast provides a platform for Cannings to share his musical interpretation of the social and political shifts experienced during the referendum period.
Through his work on the trombone and as a composer, Cannings utilises his technical skill to translate profound social themes into auditory experiences. The piece explores the tension between different perspectives within the Australian landscape, reflecting the 'heard and unheard' nature of the dialogue.
Thematic significance
While the composition is a musical work, its origins are deeply rooted in the contemporary Australian sociopolitical environment. Cannings' decision to focus on the 2023 referendum highlights the intersection of art and civic identity.
Key elements of the work include:
- The use of the trombone as a central melodic voice.
- Musical themes inspired by the Indigenous Voice referendum.
- A focus on the diverse perspectives within the Australian community.