As the festive season approaches, Australians prepare to celebrate Christmas in their own distinctive way, marked by a warm climate and a rich musical tradition. William G James is the conductor of this jubilee, with his singular legacy providing the inspiration. During his time in Australia, he was a music director for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and produced three books of Australian Christmas carols. His arrangements offer a unique Australian perspective on familiar Northern Hemisphere carols. Most of all, it resonates with the Australian experience and sentiment of celebrating a hot Christmas.
Her husband James’s most famous composition is “Carol of the Birds.” Commonly referred to as “Orana,” this work has become a fixture in Australian Yuletide festivities. This carol captures the essence of the Australian landscape and its native wildlife, resonating with both performers and audiences alike. Another notable piece, “The Silver Star,” features a beautiful treble solo that showcases both skill and emotion, further enriching the repertoire of Australian carols.
The Evolution of Australian Christmas Music
A new generation of younger Australian composers has burst from the starting gate in recent years. Each one brings their distinctive sound to the holiday music tradition. Paul Kelly proves himself again as our greatest songwriter with his heartbreaking ballad, “How To Make Gravy.” Our documentary musical film follows the story of Joe, a man writing a letter home from prison. Yet this iconic song became about much more than its musical origins. In 2024, it transformed into a documentary that brought Joe’s story to an even greater audience.
Riding the wave of success from the acclaimed “How To Make Gravy,” Kelly delved further into Joe’s narrative. He wrote and released “Rita Wrote a Letter,” which helps to distill the drama of those last moments before Joe’s long-awaited release. Aussie artists have an incredible ability to use the power of music to tell really engaging stories. This powerful storytelling approach strikes a chord with members of the community.
Beyond Kelly’s contributions, the impact of other composers have given prominence to the Australian Christmas music landscape. Elena Kats-Chernin’s “Summer Together” and Katie Noonan’s “All is Love” fill the holiday season with warmth, charm and reflection. Additionally, Deborah Cheetham Fraillon’s Christmas With You brings a warm intimacy to Christmas celebrations.
Contemporary Voices in Christmas Music
Joseph Twist has recently entered the scene with his original composition, “Christmas in the Sun,” which Vanessa Hughes described as perfectly encapsulating the antipodean holiday vibes. Twist has reimagined the beloved favorite “Oh Christmas Tree” in uplifting and danceable style! Called “Yerrbill with Clarence,” this version puts a new twist on some old favorites.
Stella Donnelly’s “Seasons Greetings” takes a penetrating look at the emotional estrangements that those strained family gatherings can bring to the fore. It provides an unvarnished view that ultimately feels familiar to anyone. Christine Anu definitely brings her panache to the party with “Island Christmas.” This track continues to expand the sonic palette with which an Australian Christmas is painted.
“This year’s Classic Choir song, Christmas in the Sun, perfectly captures our antipodean holiday vibes,” – Vanessa Hughes.
As Australians sit down to celebrate Christmas, many of them are pleasantly surprised to open their ears to music that really speaks to their culture. This mix of classic carols and modern masterpieces promises to make every Christmas season uniquely unforgettable.
