A UQ lecturer has guided a Brisbane-based band to glory at the recent 2009 Classical Music Awards.
Topology was awarded the prize for an Outstanding Contribution by an Organisation at the awards on September 21.
The band won the award for crossing musical boundaries, which was presented by the Australasian Performing Right Association and the Australian Music Centre.
The judges were unanimous on the exceptional nature of Topology’s 2008 Brisbane Powerhouse Series and applauded UQ School of Music staff Dr Robert Davidson and John Babbage for their work.
“All nominated musicians worked intensively producing and performing to prepare for their special performance. Seeing their compositions come to life on stage fulfils their creative ambitions and demonstrates their high calibre,” the judging panel noted.
“Topology’s series stood out with its impressive and innovative array of performances and collaborations that showcased and built new Australian music audiences.”
Artistic director of Topology and UQ lecturer Dr Davidson said the series ranged from collaboration with comedians the Kransky Sisters to a moving piece called Taken, which saw the orchestra work with Aboriginal actors to tell the stories of forced break-ups of Indigenous families.
“This award recognises Topology’s innovative programming work as part of the classical music scene,” Dr Davidson said.
“When collaborating, each musician moves out of their comfort zone and develops new skills and perspectives. In this process, new musical areas are opened up and audiences are encouraged to broaden their outlook and enter new scenes.”
Under a Churchill Fellowship, Dr Davidson studied composition with Terry Riley in California and then completed a PhD in composition at UQ.
Dr Davidson performed as a bassist for the Australian Opera, Sydney Symphony and Queensland Symphony Orchestras.
His compositions are regularly performed, recorded, and broadcast around the world. Dr Davidson was appointed to the School of Music in June this year.
Topology is the current ensemble-in-residence at the Brisbane Powerhouse. Their next performance is on October 4 at 6pm in the Visy Theatre.
Media: Dr Robert Davidson (07 3365 4146, topologyrob@gmail.com) or Dania Lawrence (07 3365 9163, d.lawrence@uq.edu.au)
