Svara Bhumi (Songs of the Earth) is the official opening show of GTF this year - a tribute to the land and indigenous music of the region. The concert is a unique attempt to connect the dots between lands and the stories of its people through ancient music that has passed on from generations.
One of Australia’s leading aboriginal bands, the Black Arm Band, comes with a musical presentation, forged from over 40,000 years of living with culture, and now infused with contemporary styles. They will be joined by New Zealander Ria Hall, who was featured in Stan Walker’s 2014 Aotearoa, a video to celebrate Maori Language Week. Also performing will be Indonesian singer Ayu Laksmi, who combines Eastern and Western influences along with spirituality in her compositions; and Malaysia’s Alena Murang, playing the sape - a traditional lute instrument. The concert will also feature the Mah Meri, one of eighteen “orang asli” groups found in Western Malaysia, whose ceremonial dance and music will provide a traditional opening for our show.
“The Black Arm Band reminds me of the long struggle and the long journey we’ve been on. Thirty years ago, we were marching for justice down the city streets, but now, we’re telling our stories in the concert halls.” - Archie Roach