JENNIFER ROBERTS & WENDY MURPHY
A virtuosic concert of carillons making visible the power of the bells
Sonorous Refractions
Interested in a whole-of-body musical experience?
Come and be overwhelmed by the modern Carillon performance. See the performer – 3 stories high and fully visible through the tower walls. They will perform virtuosic and physically demanding performances, manipulating 1 ½ tonne bells with sensitivity and nuance as well as great power.
Performers, both locally and from around the world will combine with multiple carillons in a world first “virtual chamber group” of carillons.
Imagine feeling the vibrations in your body as each enormous carillon bell is struck. Seeing the sound waves emanate from the tower as cascades of notes sound across the park like a light show responding to the music as it is played.
This is a unique opportunity to experience all aspects of musical perception, from the impressive sound of the bells, the visual representations of sound waves through colour and shape, as well as the physical vibrations that are amplified through the body in this cutting edge performance art.
This event is open air and free to the public, bare feet or thin soled shoes recommended for the full experience. Sunglasses may be required. Note this performance involves light shows and physical vibrations – please take care.
In an increasingly digital world where there is a growing disconnect with tactile experiences, this work is unashamedly physical. It is designed to connect the audience directly with the music, through sound, image and physical sensation.
JENNIFER ROBERTS AND WENDY MURPHY
Wendy and Jennifer are both trained musicians, who commenced specialist training on the Carillon in 2019. Under the mentorship of Lyn Fuller OAM, previous Lead Carillonist National Carillon Canberra, they developed skills and refined the technique of playing this unique instrument. Both have committed to expanding their musical repertoire to include many genres, from popular, film and folk music, as well as internationally recognised carillon repertoire. They are committed, not only to participating in the international Carillon culture which involves collaborating with many of the Carillonists from around Australia and the world, but also to sharing that music with the local community in Bathurst. Finding and playing local music by local composers is an important part of this connection to community.
Wendy is an accomplished arranger, arranging both classical and popular pieces for solo and duo carillon playing. Jennifer enjoys finding more obscure and beautiful music from times past, and giving it new life by arranging and playing it on the most public of all the instruments. Both are currently teaching the next generation of students on the Bathurst Carillon.
