An intimate, improvisation-fuelled collaboration where the world's oldest living musical tradition meets contemporary sound.
Experience an extraordinary meeting of cultures as Hand to Earth joins forces with a quartet of Australian Chamber Orchestra musicians led by Richard Tognetti.
Hand to Earth brings together Yolngu song keepers Daniel and David Wilfred with three of Australia's most innovative contemporary musicians, creating a remarkable dialogue between ancient Indigenous song traditions, improvisation, jazz, electronica and chamber music.
Performed in the intimate surrounds of The Neilson, this unique collaboration explores music that feels timeless and entirely new—powerful, meditative and profoundly moving.
The Program
The first half of the concert showcases Hand to Earth's acclaimed sound world, where ancient Wägilak songs are reimagined through minimalist textures, jazz improvisation and electronic soundscapes.
The second half premieres brand-new arrangements from the ensemble's celebrated albums, performed alongside an ACO string quartet led by Richard Tognetti.
Together these artists create a musical conversation that honours one of the world's oldest living cultural traditions while embracing fearless contemporary expression.
A Musical Meeting of Worlds
Part of the ACO Up Close series, this performance places audiences just metres from the musicians, revealing every subtle interaction, breath and improvisation.
Inspired by Richard Tognetti's first encounter with Hand to Earth in London, this concert marks the beginning of a remarkable artistic partnership between the ensemble and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
Ancient, contemporary and deeply human, this is a rare opportunity to experience music that transcends genre and speaks across generations and cultures.
Artists
Hand to Earth Daniel Wilfred – Voice, Bilma David Wilfred – Yidaki, Voice Sunny Kim – Voice & Percussion Peter Knight – Trumpet, Electronics & Synthesiser Aviva Endean – Clarinets, Winds & Electronics
ACO Quartet Richard Tognetti – Violin Satu Vänskä – Violin Stefanie Farrands – Viola Julian Thompson – Cello
"A musical evening of power and grace, drawing you into a sound world that feels ancient and immediate all at once."
— Australian Chamber Orchestra
Event Details
Venue: The Neilson, ACO On The Pier Pier 2/3, Walsh Bay Arts Precinct 13A Hickson Road, Dawes Point NSW
Date: Friday 11 September 2026
Performance Time: 7:00pm
Duration: 75 minutes (no interval)
Featuring: Hand to Earth Richard Tognetti Satu Vänskä Stefanie Farrands Julian Thompson
Part of: ACO Up Close 2026
Perfect For: Contemporary music • Indigenous Australian culture • Improvisation • Chamber music • Experimental performance
