HIGHWAYS OF HOPE: OUR STORY WITHIN

The Banding Together project set out to capture stories from a range of people connected with the Australian music community in the COVID-19 era. The hardships unearthed are raw and real, but meeting these challenges has inspired acts of compassion, resilience, talent and innovation.

Music is playing a key role in many of these undertakings; a universal language keeping us connected and lifting our spirits. These stories provide a positive focus, signposts to be celebrated along the Highways of Hope.

The COVID-19 pandemic has unearthed new challenges and associated stories of resilience around them as we continue to explore a pathway forward. Culturally driven music – storytelling along the way from our First Nations community – has provided opportunities for us to learn and nurture relationships with one another and the lands which we inhabit.

Robert Bundle and Alice Skye are two of these music storytellers from different generations who continue to communicate through their artistic expression while also inspiring others to do the same. As their journeys continue to evolve, they reflect the new opportunities for First Nations musicians and songwriters when talent and culture are properly supported.

As part of our commitment to capturing and sharing great Australian music stories, the Australian Music Vault responded to the challenges of COVID-19 by creating a series of video stories that capture, in real time, the impact that this pandemic has had on the music community.

Banding Together is the music community’s stories; the Australian Music Vault has simply helped capture them.

If you, or someone you know – including those connected to the creative industries – are facing mental health challenges, please contact one of the following helplines: Support Act Wellbeing Helpline on 1800 959 500; Arts Wellbeing Collective; Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.