Warrin (2022) by James Henry (International Premiere), Melbourne String Ensemble, Berlin, April 2024

The Melbourne String Ensemble, Directed by Fintan Murphy
MSE Seasons Tour to Germany and Czechia, April 2024
Australian Embassy Concert, Berlin. 3 April, 2024
Warrin by James Henry (International Premiere)
Inspired by Warrin (Wombat Season), April-July, Wurundjeri Country
Commissioned in 2022 by Melbourne String Ensembles as part of The Seasons Project (Premiere Season)
Composers Notes
“I was honoured to have the blessing of the Wurundjeri people to write this piece representing their culture through an interpretation of ‘Warrin’ (Wombat Season). I am grateful to have Michelle Mills guide me on the information about the season and have her trust with my representation of it. Warrin season is marked by the behaviours of certain animals and cycles of vegetation. It is said to be broken up into two parts, the ‘early winter’ of April and May and the ‘deep winter’ of June and mid-July. Musically the piece is inspired by animal movements, weather and Wurundjeri preparation for the colder and wetter months. The piece starts with a solo violin representing Bunjil (Wedge-tailed
Eagle) in flight and finishes with a rain of pizzicato as soloists represent the Wurundjeri moving to higher land due to flooding.”
- James Henry, composer, March 2022
The Seasons Project
Conceived in 2021 with the aim of broadening our understanding and representation of indigenous seasons, The Seasons Project commissions new works inspired by the diverse seasons of Country in Australia. These works are curated within performance and education programs, inviting audiences to explore the narratives and cultural significance of the seasons. By delving into the perceptions and stories surrounding each season, the project offers an opportunity to deepen connections to culture and the environment. The Seasons Project premiered in 2022 with a collection of season-inspired works for string orchestra, composed by First Nations artists. These compositions were paired in performance with Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, creating a dialogue between traditional and contemporary perspectives. The works were commissioned and performed by The Melbourne String Ensemble.
Original Concept Caitlin Williams. Developed and realised by Caitlin Williams, Creative Producer and Fintan Murphy, MSE Artistic Director & Conductor.
mse.org.au/pro...
Video by James Henry