Ok, so last year’s Desert Choir was amazing, but this year, thanks to a sensational wet season, the desert was even more spectacular. The 6 days in the West McDonnell Ranges took us to ochre pits, petroglyphs, gorges, plateaux, gorges, chasms, valleys of ancient palms, all in remarkable colours and textures. Due to my panoramic ignorance of all things floral, I can’t give any botanical details, but everything was in bloom, and rivers were flowing—a good thing until we had to get out of the Ormiston Gorge through the water. Some members of the party had to do some moderately intense rock-climbing, while others sang opera on the bank and paddled out in inflatables. Everything was done with good humour, and it was a wonderful group, open, articulate, willing and fun.
Standley Chasm: Shine on me. Pic: Marianne
Walking and singing every day, periods of meditative silence, a lot of laughter. Peak moments for me were the vocal improvisations, singing solo in the Standley Chasm while Marianne conducted the choir, the stillness of the star-filled night when one got out of one’s cocoon to take a leak, and above all the concert in the Hermannsburg church where we had the privilege of singing with one of the traditional owners, charismatic country legend Warren H. Williams on his wonderful song, ‘Learn my song’. His son Nicholas, who can’t help but be a star in his own right, was our guide and a beautiful addition to the team, always agile and charming, and above all, present. A model for us all. Thanks to Raymond, Candyss, Nicholas, Tom, Kaz, Mark and the singers for a great week, and thanks to Janet for the Mollydooker libation.
(Next year’s Desert Choir: June 18-25 2011 - but before then, Singing and walking in the Margaret River, March 5-12 2011 - see Into the Blue. )
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