Singing on Deerubbin Shores

Now in its third year, this event is open to anyone who loves to sing and would like to learn more about Darug language and culture.

'Deerubbin' is the Darug word for the Hawkesbury River. A successful collaboration between Darug musicians Aunty Jacinta Tobin and Stacy Jane Etal, local choir leader Suze Pratten, and Big Sing Inc creator Rachel Hore. The event has been steadily gaining momentum over the past three years.

"I am very excited and proud to be organising this special event" said local Darug singer/songwriter Stacy Etal. "It is so important that Darug is spoken and taught in our region, and singing is a great way to learn language."

Many of the songs taught at the weekend will be original compositions, including Darug songs written by Stacy and Jacinta, and acapella songs in English arranged and/or composed by Rachel and Suze.

"Singing is healing for the spirit, and our country needs this right now" said Rachel Hore. "Songs connect us, in all of our difference, across time and place, language and age."

A new addition to the program this year is Deerubbin for Kids. Children of any age are invited to come with their carers to take part in the first hour of the workshop. Stacy and Jacinta will be leading fun Darug songs for kids as part of the public Welcome to Country ceremony. The Welcome ceremony is free, and open to the public from 9.30am -10.30am on Saturday February 22.

Workshop participants can sign up for the whole weekend or Saturday only. It is being held at the Richmond School of Arts in Richmond.

All queries to Stacy Etal: deerubbin19@gmail.com. More Info: https://rachelhore.com/big-sing-in-the-desert/deerubbin/. BOOKINGS: www.trybooking.com/BFKUW