CULTURAL EXCHANGE THROUGH MUSIC: INDIGENOUS CHOIR TAKES GLOBAL STAGE
Marliya Choir performing at the Barbican Centre, London
BY ASAD KHAN AND TANGIORA HINAKI
In a powerful showcase of cultural exchange and artistic collaboration, 16 Indigenous girls from Far North Queensland brought their stories and voices to the international stage.
The Marliya choir, part of the Gondwana Indigenous Children's Choir, performed at the renowned Barbican Centre in London, presenting "Spinifex Gum," a unique choral work that blends music with stories of Indigenous culture and resilience.
The piece, composed by Felix Riebl and Ollie McGill of The Cat Empire, has its roots in the stories and heritage of the Yindjibarndi people from Western Australia’s Pilbara region.
One of the key collaborators on the project, Michael Woodley, a Yindjibarndi man, expressed pride in the journey the project has taken over the last six years.
“It’s overwhelming, in a really good way,” Mr Woodley said.
“We started this idea with Felix Riebl, who has been amazing at capturing the history and heritage of the Yindjibarndi people in his songs. To see us performing at the Barbican in London, one of the premier venues in Europe, is a testament to all the hard work.”
Mr Woodley reflected on the emotional impact of seeing his people's stories shared on a global platform.
“Every time I see these performances, I feel proud and emotional. The name ‘Ganalili’ means ‘the first dawning,’ symbolizing a new day hopefully, every day brings something to look forward to.”
For the young performers, the experience has been equally transformative. Ziva Osbourne James, a 15-year-old Torres Strait Islander and member of the choir, spoke about her journey with the choir.
“I started with Gondwana in 2018, when I was in Grade 4, and joined Marliya in 2020. It’s been an incredible seven years so far.”
Ms Osbourne emphasized the range of skills she has gained, from learning music theory to collaborating with others.
“We’re taught how to read music, sing in harmony, and work together as a group. Being in Marliya has opened my eyes to a lot of things—especially about what’s happening in Indigenous communities and the importance of preserving language and passing down stories.”
The Marliya choir’s performance at the Barbican not only highlights the talent and dedication of these young artists but also underscores the importance of cultural storytelling and exchange.
As these voices continue to rise, so too does the awareness and appreciation of Indigenous heritage, both in Australia and abroad.
Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Tangiora Hinaki speak with Michael Woodley and Ziva Osbourne: