This work was commissioned by the "Österreichische Blasmusikjugend" (Austrian Brass Band Association - Young Musicians).The Aboriginal indigenous people of Australia are among the oldest surviving human cultures. The arrival of the Europeans marked their decline and endangered their existence. The many secrets the Aborigines hold served as inspiration for this work. Aboriginal SpiritOver many centuries, the Aboriginal people have cultivated a unique ability to live in harmony with the world around them. Maintaining the deli¬cate balance between their trinity - nature, man, and creation - is an important factor for bliss and happiness.Primeval Sound and Dreamtime The tens of thousands-year-old stories from the era called Dreamtime - the Aborigines' creation myth - play an important role in not only their be¬liefs, but their everyday lives and laws as well. Ancestral worship and various other rituals and ceremonies are still held in high regard to this very day.Running HunterThe Aborigines are extremely skilful hunters and are able to run for extended periods of time when chasing their prey. Hunting weapons, such as the boomerang, exemplify their abilities.Uluru (Red Rock)Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a natural sandstone "inselberg" rising 348m above Australia's plains, and is one of the country's most recognisable icons. Uluru is also a sacred place for the local Aborigines. Its history stretches back to Dreamtime, although it did not exist in its current state at that time.Encounter with the White MenUnfortunately, the "White Men" did not realize the significance and importance of the Aborigines and their culture until the end of the 20th century. Before then, they were unaware that the Aborigines were quite possibly one of the oldest known cultures on earth, with a seamless history stretching back to creation itself; Dreamtime. BushfireFire has been present on the Australian continent for millions of years. Many of the indigenous flora and fauna have needed to adapt to fire, and evolution has led to unique solutions for survival. Over time, a complex symbiotic relationship has grown between life and the continually returning bushfire. 11:55
