A rich new collaboration between composer Nigel Westlake, singer/songwriter Lior and language activist Lou Bennett, Ngapa William Cooper is a tribute to the life of Yorta Yorta activist William Cooper.

In 1938, Cooper played a pivotal role in establishing equal rights for Aboriginal Australians, led the only non-Jewish protest worldwide against the events of Kristallnacht in Nazi Germany. This new work is a way of preserving and promoting his legacy and bringing to light this remarkable act of compassion.

Ngapa William Cooper combines Westlake’s signature rich musical palette with moving vocals from Lior and Bennett. Sung in English and Yorta Yorta language, this powerful story celebrates a man who left behind a legacy of resistance, solidarity and empathy.

This performance will also feature Frederick Septimus Kelly’s Elegy in Memoriam Rupert Brooke. The Australian composer’s work, written while he was in the trenches at Gallipoli, speaks equally powerfully to compassion and our shared humanity.

A work of both outstanding musical quality and extraordinary cultural significance.

Limelight

• Program

  Arvo Pärt

  Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Britten

  Nigel Westlake

  Trumpet Concerto

  Nigel Westlake, Lior,
  Lou Bennett, Sarah Gorry

  Ngapa William Cooper

• Artists

  Nigel Westlake

  Conductor

  Lior

  Vocals

  Lou Bennett

  Vocals

  Andrea Lam

  Piano

  Brent Grapes

  Trumpet