Drawing links between the power of nature and the power of music
As he played, coded algorithms made his Disklavier respond, creating the impression that Tepfer was accompanied by a pair of invisible hands. Meanwhile, visual representations of pitch, harmony and rhythm dance across the dome of the Melbourne Planetarium, building simple geometric shapes into sophisticated 3D fractals and spiraling, multicolored mandalas.
It was an awe-inspiring performance that mixed amazing creativity with complex music theory and physics.
Meanwhile, The Jazzlab hosted two fiery groups fronted by South American expats. New York-based Chilean saxophonist Melissa Aldana performed a tightly focused quartet, but I preferred Meretrio’s edgier music.
Led by Brazilian-born, Europe-based musician Emiliano Sampaio, the Meretrio blended complex themes and vibrant Brazilian rhythms, complemented by the effervescent flutes and saxophones of Heinrich von Kalnein.
Two of the festival’s biggest names – Al Di Meola and Lalah Hathaway – delivered stylish concerts brimming with musical intelligence, although both were so polished that there was limited room for spontaneity.
Di Meola’s guitar virtuosity was dazzling, but somehow lacked fire, despite being accompanied by two exceptional percussionists.
Lalah Hathaway’s superbly polished yet understated vocals were at times left in full flight by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and the lush arrangements designed to showcase her late father Donny’s songs occasionally slipped into easy-listening territory.
On the closing night of the festival, Yuin’s composer/musician Brenda Gifford presented a mesmerizing piece inspired by the migration of whales (moriyawa) and their meaning in creation narratives.
Gifford played the saxophone in his empathetic ensemble (which included members of the Australian Art Orchestra), but his main role was as a composer and cultural guide, leading the musicians and the audience deep into his country.
Yes, the suite vividly evoked the majesty of whales, whistling calls, sonic vibrations and spectacular breaches. But it evoked much more, too: a palpable sense of connection to land, sea, and sky, and a reverence for ancestral traditions—the yidaki (didgeridoo), taps, and Dhurga’s whispered accounts of Gifford’s nephew, Joe Brown McLeod, conveyed with quiet intensity. .
Loading
Here too, the power of nature and the power of music were inextricably linked and touched something both original and indescribably profound.
A cultural guide to outdoor activities and loving your city. Subscribe to our Culture Fix newsletter here.