giving voice - open rehearsal

Commissioned by Halcyon, Elliott Gyger's giving voice won the 2013 Paul Lowin Song Cycle prize, the industry’s most prestigious award. The cycle of seven songs features an unusual ensemble of mezzo, alto flute/piccolo, oboe/cor anglais, viola, cello and guitar in varying combinations.  giving voice is an intimate look at the theme of early childhood, the limitless potential (and uncertainty) of a new human life and the voice as a symbol of emerging identity. Elliott has set a collection of contemporary Australian poems by women writers together with the early words of his own daughter Sophia. Halcyon gave the premiere of the piece in 2014 and will be going into the studio to record it in early October to complete a new Halcyon all-Gyger chamber music CD.

On September 30 we are holding a special behind-the-scenes event, at St Bede’s Anglican Church, at 6pm.  You are invited to hear the composer talk about the piece and watch the rehearsal process in its final stages. It is a rare chance to see the performers in a more relaxed mode 'off the stage' and to experience the process of fine-tuning a piece for performance.

Entry is by donation (recommended amount is $20) and all money received will go towards funding the artists for this rehearsal and supporting Halcyon in the creation of new music.