On Tuesday 8 September 2026, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra welcomed a group of First Nations composers to the Concert Hall stage marking the beginning of a new partnership with Ngarra-Burria: First Peoples Composers.
Led by renowned composer and educator Dr Christopher Sainsbury, Ngarra-Burria supports the development of emerging and established First Nations composers, creating pathways for Indigenous voices to be heard across Australia's musical landscape. Over the course of the day, composers Nardi Simpson, Troy Russell, Rhyan Clapham (DOBBY), Elizabeth Sheppard and Will Kepa had the opportunity to explore writing for string orchestra in a professional orchestral environment. More than simply a reading session, the workshop provided a rare chance for composers to hear their works brought to life by Sydney Symphony musicians and Conductor in Residence by Ben Northey.
As each piece was performed, composers engaged in open discussion with the conductor and musicians, receiving practical, collaborative feedback that will help shape the next stages of their creative development. The workshop room became a space of experimentation, learning and dialogue, where ideas could be tested and refined in real time.
The workshop marks an important first step in what both parties hope will become a sustained and evolving partnership, with dates tentatively scheduled for 2027 and beyond.
