The Diplomat
On 30 May, at the Real Jardín Botánico in Madrid, the Australian Embassy celebrated National Reconciliation Week with a unique concert, the fruit of a new musical collaboration that unites the most traditional sounds of Spain and Australia.
The organisation brought the music of Australian Ngulmiya Nundhirribala, one of the most prestigious and renowned singers from Arnhem Land in northern Australia, to Spain for the first time bringing the ancient song lines and ceremonial music of his family in a special collaboration with virtuoso Spanish guitarist, composer and producer Pau Figueres. The result of this union is a soon-to-be-released album, the first track of which, Guwaag (Rainbird) feat. Pau Figueres, has been available since Friday 17 May.
Every year, Australia celebrates National Reconciliation Week to recognise the cultures, heritage and communities of Australia’s First Nations. The dates are always the same: 27 May to 3 June, commemorating two significant milestones: the 1967 referendum and the Mabo High Court decision respectively. The 2024 theme, Now More Than Ever, encourages all people in Australia to have a voice in the journey towards Reconciliation.
