Kuranda: Music in the Village

Kuranda has always been a place that attracts musicians and artists. We are so lucky to have a wealth of talent in such a small region of Australia.

At Earth Connections Kuranda, Rachel Shields, a talented musician and songwriter, has collected a range of musical styles on cds from Kuranda and surrounding areas to showcase independent music from this area. The quality and variety of the music never ceases to amaze me.

No post about music in Kuranda would be complete without a mention of the Kuranda Amphitheatre, a community run venue that has operated with volunteer-only status for the last 25+ years.

Over the years we have been lucky enough to play host to many national and international artists including INXS, Silver Chair, Midnight Oil, Yothu Yindi, Charlie Pride, Jackson Browne,  John Butler Trio, Missy Higgins and countless other performers, as well as both local and touring theatre productions.

This venue is much loved by artists and concert goers alike and it is no wonder as it is such a picturesque setting, with an atmosphere that is only created by people who are passionate  and committed to creating a sense of ‘special place” closely akin to ‘sacred space’ In fact John Butler, from the John Butler Trio, referred to the Kuranda Amphitheatre as “hallowed ground for performers” in a message he sent to congratulate the members on the 25th Anniversary. See www.kurandaamphitheatre.org

A popular event in Kuranda over the last few months has been the drumming circles which happen at the Original Kuranda Rainforest Markets on Sundays.

This is not only popular with the locals, but increasingly with visitors from other parts of Australia and overseas.  The markets have traditionally been a meeting place for locals and visitors. The informality of the markets combined with a space to create and play have proven to be an experience that people want to be part of.  There are many venues in town where music is central to the culture of village life and when this is no longer the case, then it is time to pack up and leave, because as Shakespeare wrote

“If music be the food of love, play on…”

Twelfth Night Act 1, scene 1, 1–3

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