ABSTRACT
Chapter One includes an exploration of the Australian cultural landscape in the 1960s and 1970s. Described as ‘an unparalleled and unique sociological and cultural revolution’ (Murdoch, 1975: xi), the years between 1960 and 1975 saw rapid changes in the Australian cultural climate, changes that made room for the new practices of contemporary percussion music. Until the 1960s, many Australian composers and performers had identified largely with the English pastoral style of creating music or explored post-impressionist neoclassical forms, genres that traditionally do not highlight percussion instruments. Increased recognition via the presentation of new professional and educational opportunities in Australia and the formation of substantial federal funding bodies inspired a new generation of Australian composers who embraced influential modernist musical styles. Composers and performers of contemporary music increased in number, key government and independent organisations supporting contemporary music were established and new ensembles began exploring new forms of contemporary music making in chamber music, electronic music and orchestral music. It was within this climate of musical change that dozens of performing arts groups were established, including a number of percussion ensembles. Further, artists of all disciplines began taking new creative risks, resulting in greater diversity of output. During this period – a time when technological advancements and the increasing ease of international travel began to improve global connections – the establishment of links between international and Australian contemporary musicians and their practices commenced with the return of expatriates, and touring and immigration of international musicians. The role of the world’s first percussion ensemble – Les Percussions de Strasbourg – in the emergence of Australian contemporary percussion is a key focus, and particular reference is made to the catalytic impact on the Australian music scene of Les Percussions de Strasbourg’s 1971 tour. This chapter articulates how these elements converged, leading to the formation of a nascent percussion scene in Australia.
