BONDI BEACH: Does a building have a voice? This question is the kernel of Building Song, an experimental art activation by 15 artists poised to begin its third iteration at Bondi Pavilion this month.
Previous Building Song activations have occurred in the historic buildings of Chrissie Cotter Hall in Camperdown and The Foundations in Portland, regional NSW. The ensemble spends up to three weeks in each building, researching resonant tones and characteristics that speak of provenance and different uses.
Headed by world-renowned vocalists Voices from the Vacant Lot, the ensemble features Aboriginal Elder Peter Swain, artists Gabrielle Bates, Kate Brown, musician Ellen Kirkwood and vocalists from the local community.
Based in South Sydney, Voices from the Vacant Lot are experts in a cappella performance rooted in the immediate environment. Building Song expands this idea with inspired activations developed entirely within and around buildings.
“Our research delves into local stories from the community”, says Cybele Shorter, the musical director and a lead vocalist. “From what we discover, we blend our voices with ring modulation, electronic looping, found percussion and site-responsive staging.”
For Bondi Pavilion, the ensemble will weave colourful beach and Pavilion stories with ancient Songlines to create an artwork that is celebratory and affirming.
“Building Song engages architecture and audience in a way that invites everyone to look, listen and create together”, says artist and project founder, Gabrielle Bates. “Each Building Song offers a singular experience – participants find it deeply moving and cathartic.”
Building Song will happen at 12 noon on Saturday, October 26 at Bondi Pavilion. The event is free, and everyone is welcome to attend.
Building Song crew acknowledges the traditional custodians of Bondi Beach, the Gadigal and Bidjigal peoples of the Eora Nation, and thanks Waverley Council for its support.
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“Stunning. Superlatives aren’t up to describing the occasion. Ethereal perhaps. Almost a religious experience” (Brett Nutting, audience member from Building Song Portland performance).
“It was incredible, the sound, space, voices, song, people, movement” (Arabella Lee, audience member from Building Song Portland performance).
“A moving tribute to the former life of the building and the people who worked there, while calling in its new life” (Ian Milliss, audience member from Building Song Portland performance).
