An original composition by Robert Zielinski for traditional Irish fiddle, wooden flute, cello and bouzouki, Kiangardarup is inspired by the majestic Torbay Inlet in Western Australia’s Great Southern region, where Robert lived for several years working as a violin maker and touring musician. The piece received a standing ovation at its world premiere in the Perth Concert Hall in May 2024.
Kiangardarup comes from the country of the Minang people, that have lived there for thousands of generations. An evocative piece that takes the listener on a journey, from the awakening dawn through the heat of the day, to dusk and a still night spent under the karri forest and stars.
After many years spent honing his craft, Robert is emerging on the world music scene as a hidden talent, choosing now to share his unique and powerful music with audiences around the world.
Sounds of the forest recorded by Robert and stunning images of the inlet and surrounding country, taken by Manuela Centanni, enhance the performance, giving the listener the feeling of being in Torbay itself.
Robert, violin, Manuela, flute, and Melinda Forsythe, cello, together will bring Kiangardarup to Christchurch.
The long-awaited album, 6 years in the making, will be available on the night.
“It is music that will transport you” - Semra Lee, Assistant Concertmaster of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra
“It cuts through rules and genres of music in a pure celebration of life” - Lucky Oceans, former ABC Radio National presenter
“The music is richly melodic and gorgeous to listen to” - Lee Buddle, Crank Recording senior producer
“Robert Zielinski has given us a masterpiece that is as much a tribute to his West Australian home as it is to the enduring spirit of Irish traditional music” - Stevie Connor, The Sound Cafe, Canada