Clancestry

Wata

a gathering for songmen, improvising soloists and orchestra

Concert Hall, QPAC


31 Jul 2025, 7:30pm
$69 - $89

A transaction fee of $7.50 applies.

Discounts Available

Concession, Schools

more info

1 hour 20 minutes

(no interval, subject to change without notice)

Wata

Image by Sarah Walker

In one of the most innovative and energising works to emerge in 2024, composer and pianist Paul Grabowsky will bring the Queensland Symphony Orchestra 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 exciting, invigorating and spontaneous. Come experience the expansive warmth and astonishing musicality of Wata. It’s totally life affirming.

Wata is part of Clancestry.  Find out more here.

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

Artists

Queensland Symphony Orchestra

Orchestra

Benjamin Northey

Conductor

Paul Grabowsky

Director and Piano

Daniel Ngukurr Boy Wilfred

Vocals and Bilma

David Yipininy Wilfred

Yidaki

Erkki Veltheim

Violin

Helen Svoboda

Double Bass

Peter Knight

Trumpet and Electronics

Aviva Endean

Bass Clarinet

Important Information

Accessibility at QPAC

For wheelchair users, Companion Card holders or those requiring assistance, dedicated seating options are available, and bookings can be made through our Call Centre by calling 136 246. You can also find information on access and accessibility at QPAC here .

Presented by QPAC and Queensland Symphony Orchestra as part of Clancestry

This event is part of the QPAC 40 program, celebrating 40 years of joy, inclusion, gathering and stories.

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