What exists underground is never truly known. The paradox of the underground is that the moment it is uncovered, it is by definition, no longer underground, and therefore ceases to exist. The “unknown” is necessary for the existence of imagination and hope. The absence of the underground, the crisis of mystery, is an absence of possibility. The unknown paves way for the power of human imagination.  

‘Ground’ is a reflective piece of rhythmic uncovering and re-covering. At the midpoint, the music inverts and continues in retrograde. It is a musical palindrome, sounding the same played backwards or forwards. The work came to me as I was walking silently in the bush on Palawa Country, in Lutruwita (Tasmania). As a composer who has been influenced so profoundly by the people and landscapes of my home in Larrakia Country (Darwin) over the past 20 years, this “unknown” country brought new sounds and ideas into my work, as I entered a meditative walking rhythm. ‘Ground’ was composed on unceded Aboriginal land – Lutruwita and Gulumoerrgin. I acknowledge the powerful, continued presence of its ancestors and custodians for allowing me to walk safely and receive its songs. 

‘Ground’ will make its world premiere, opening the evening at our upcoming concert From Common Ground. Before the performance, join Artistic Director & Chief Conductor Richard Mills AO for a pre‑concert talk exploring Netanela’s new work and its place within the program. This free event is open to all ticket holders. 

Get your tickets today for From Common Ground