The Bowerbird Collective: Where Song Began

A cinematic concert celebrating songbirds.

Described as ‘spectacular‘ by Limelight Magazine in a 5-star review, Where Song Began is an iconic celebration of songbirds. The mesmerising program of music spans 300 years, from Bach and Schmelzer to Arvo Pärt and new commissions, enhanced by a film of evocative visual projections and immersive soundscapes.

Performed more than 100 times throughout Australia and internationally to rave reviews, this concert marks the long awaited Melbourne debut of The Bowerbird Collective, and celebrates the 125th birthday of BirdLife Australia.

Where Song Began offers audiences an unforgettable and deeply moving evening filled with the beauty, colour and sounds of the Australian landscape. Brought to life by virtuosic, passionate performers with extraordinary multimedia staging, this concert shines a light on our unique and precious birdlife and the evolution of song.

The Bowerbird Collective
Simone Slattery violin
Anthony Albrecht cello

Arvo Pärt Fratres for solo violin, 1977

Sarah Hopkins Reclaiming the Spirit, 1993

Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending, 1917

Chris Williams bird, songs, seas, 2017

Ross Edwards Ecstatic Dance No.2, 1990

Johann Heinrich Schmelzer Cucu Sonata, 1664

J.S. Bach Prelude from Cello Suite No.1, c.1720

David John Lang Anthochaera carunculata (Red Wattle Bird), 2017

Ngarra Burra Ferra Traditional Indigenous hymn