Vignette 89: Urban Corroboree

In 1985, Urban Corroboree emerged as a groundbreaking music composition that celebrated the coming together of traditional and urban Aboriginal cultures. 

Initially conceived as an educational project at the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music (CASM). But by 1987, the music piece had evolved, incorporating a jazz-rock suite, 
and featuring collaborations between Pitjantjatjara Elders, CASM staff, and students.

One of the defining features of Urban Corroboree is its inclusive approach to music, offering urban based students an opportunity to express a developing modern Aboriginal identity without the constraints of traditional music structure. It trailblazed new ways of making music featuring traditional Inma (ceremonial song and dance) within a contemporary composition. 

The success of Urban Corroboree was not confined to educational settings; it reached international audiences through performances at the Festival Fringe and the XVII International Conference of the International Society for Music Education. By 1989, Urban Corroboree had garnered invitations to perform at the Second Annual Festival of Aboriginal Rock Music in Darwin and participated in workshops at the University of New England Armidale.

Urban Corroboree has contributed to preserving and revitalising Aboriginal culture by fostering a deep sense of unity and understanding.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Leading for the future. p.123