Tyalgum Mantras - Ross Edwards

Tyalgum Mantras (1999)

for shakuhachi, didjeridu and percussion

Ross Edwards

Composed especially for Con Spirit Oz, a Sydney-based group consisting of shakuhachi, didjeridu and percussion, Tyalgum Mantras is one of a series of meditational pieces Ross Edwards began to compose in the 1970s. Other examples are Pond Light Mantras for two pianos and Yarrageh for percussion and orchestra. These works, which have been described as 'contemplation objects in sound' are designed to focus the listener's attention inwards and create a trance-like stillness.

Tyalgum Mantras was commissioned by the Tyalgum Festival - Tyalgum is a town in north eastern New South Wales - and the first performance was given at the 1999 Festival.