13 February 2025
Self, Place and Purpose: A Reflection by Beverly Kwan
Written by Beverly Kwan, February 2025
Attending the Q&A session with Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO was an eye-opening
experience that deepened my appreciation for the power of music, culture, and identity. As a
Yorta Yorta woman, composer, and opera singer, Cheetham Fraillon has reshaped the
Australian classical music landscape by weaving Indigenous perspectives into her work. One
moment that stood out to me was when she spoke about her work in the opera industry,
which made me reflect on the impact that music can have. It was a conversation that left me
feeling inspired, challenged and moved, and it sparked a new understanding of music,
representation and storytelling.
A highlight of the session was learning about Deborah’s journey towards composing
Indigenous works, establishing her company Short Black Opera, and what inspires and
motivates her. She currently runs two children’s choirs for First Nations children, one of them
being the Dhungala Children’s Choir. The DCC has performed across many major venues in
Australia, including premiering Eumeralla in the Sydney Opera House with the Sydney
Symphony Orchestra last year. Deborah said that on days that she lacks motivation, she
thinks of these kids – just knowing that she can get in front of them and help them to be
confident in who they are, connect them to their cultural identity, and give them a safe place
where they can strive.
As an educator, Deborah’s goal is mainly to give people confidence and encourage the
desire to know. There is a difference between knowing something and understanding
something. In the context of music, this is particularly important. Australia has a long history
of music, which is something we all love and that forms part of our cultural identity. What’s
so special about it is that it’s something that has existed before us, and we become part of
its life, then it exists beyond us. Thus, playing music gives us an amazing sense of self,
place, and purpose.
Ultimately, listening to Deborah speak about her work in music was extremely inspiring,
interesting and thought-provoking.