Pictured: Choir members during the recording session.
Engadine Uniting Church commemorates National Reconciliation Week with rendition of Warumpi Band’s anthem Blackfella/Whitefella
Watch a segment of their recording in this video created by Reconciliation Australia, one of many collations made using entries from other choirs.
In honour of National Reconciliation Week, Engadine Uniting Church extended an open invitation to the local community to join in learning and singing the powerful reconciliation anthem “Blackfella/Whitefella” by the Warumpi Band, aiming to unite voices in harmony, regardless of religious affiliation or singing ability, to promote reconciliation and understanding.
Rehearsals were facilitated by talented local music teacher Andrea Harrison, whose infectious enthusiasm helped bring the song to life. Andrea had previously been involved with last year’s Engadine Uniting pop-up choir for Reconciliation Week. She said “I had so much fun last year I didn’t hesitate to do it all again this year.”
Last year, the choir participated in the nationwide rendition of “From Little Things, Big Things Grow.” This year’s endeavour seeks to continue this legacy of unity and collaboration.
With only three rehearsals scheduled before recording for the combined choir, community members were urged to seize this opportunity to contribute their voices to this meaningful cause. The first rehearsal saw individuals from diverse backgrounds coming together to embrace the spirit of reconciliation through music. Numbers and enthusiasm grew over the next few rehearsals, among them were Margaret, Ellen, Sarah, Ray, and Adrian, who exemplified the inclusive nature of the initiative. Choir member Ray said “I heard about the choir through the grapevine and decided to join because it seemed like a fun way to stand for something I think is important and be a part of something that is greater than myself.”
Choir coordinator Loraine Holley said “I believe recognition holds a profound significance for Aboriginal Australians. It’s not just about acknowledging past wrongs but actively working towards understanding, healing and unity. Through music and solidarity, we can amplify voices, bridge divides and foster genuine reconciliation.”
The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2024, “Now More Than Ever,” underscores the ongoing commitment to justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In the face of divisiveness, reconciliation supporters are urged to remain engaged and proactive.
In 2023 we celebrated Reconciliation Week singing “From Little Things, Big Things Grow” alongside 500 choirs nationwide. Our performance was one of 22 featured in Reconciliation Australia’s final video clip. Discover the full story here.
From Reconciliation Australia:
In 1985, the Warumpi Band fired up reconciliation with their single ‘Blackfella/Whitefella’. Written by band members George Rrurrambu and Neil Murray, the song is a call for all people of all backgrounds and races to come together and stand up for change.
The song cut through with its simple but powerful message and catchy melody, becoming an anthem for the reconciliation movement in Australia.
The National Reconciliation Week theme for 2024, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must – and will – continue.
There have been many moments in Australia’s reconciliation journey that make us want to turn away but when things are divisive, the worst thing we can do is disengage or disconnect.
Reconciliation supporters must stand up to defend and uphold the rights of First Nations peoples. Stand up and be counted this National Reconciliation Week. Join us in song and help contribute to a more reconciled Australia. Check out the music video for Blackfella/Whitefella here
Reconciliation Australia thanks the family of the late George Rrurrambu, Neil James Murray, the Butcher families, and Universal Music Publishing Group for their support of Voices for Reconciliation: Louder than Ever. Choir arrangements by William Brown and backing tracks from Tim Blunt and Jake Sheath.
For those interested in joining the choir or seeking reconciliation, please contact admin@engadine.unitingchurch.org.au.
Recent Comments