Back to the Roots

Where cultures connect

Discover music shaped by culture, identity and creativity

Featuring a dynamic trio of multi-instrumentalists, Back to the Roots is a captivating exploration of where music comes from; and where it can go.  

Combining traditional instruments such as the zheng (traditional Chinese plucked zither) and mridangam (double-sided hand drum) with contemporary styles and original compositions, the ensemble weaves together diverse musical influences to create a sound that is fresh, distinctive and deeply personal. The show also features konnakol – the South Indian art of vocal percussion; offering students a fascinating insight into the rhythmic language and traditions of Carnatic music. 

Students will explore how music reflects culture and identity, experiment with blending musical styles, and learn unique systems of understanding the elements of music. Rich in texture and storytelling, Back to the Roots celebrates the power of music to shape and share who we are.

GANATHIPAN ARUNESWARAN BASS, PIANO
JULIA LUO GUZHENG
PIRASHANNA THEVARAJAH CARNATIC PERCUSSION

Suitability
Suitable for students up to Year 8.

Curriculum and Cross-curriculum Links
HASS, Mathematics, The Arts, Asia and Australia’s Engagement with Asia, Sustainability

Back to the Roots is supported by the Centre for Australia-India Relations.

Event and Ticketing Details

Live In School Tour Dates

Adelaide SA
2027 - Term 2 (24 - 28 May)
Riverland SA
2027 - Term 2 (31 May - 2 Jun)
Sydney East & City NSW
2027 - Term 3 (26 Jul - 2 Aug)
2027 - Term 3 (5 - 6 Aug)
Riverina NSW
2027 - Term 3 (13 - 17 Sep)
Greater Western Sydney NSW
2027 - Term 4 (18 - 25 Oct)
2027 - Term 4 (28 - 29 Oct)

Pricing

Student $10.50 - (min. 150 students per concert) An exemption to the minimum student numbers may be available for small schools.
Teacher All teachers attend for free

Professional Development

Every Musica Viva Australia In Schools show booking includes a free Professional Development Webinar designed to help you get the most out of your chosen ensemble and accompanying teaching resources.

PD Webinars will take place in Term 1. 2027. Registrations open Monday 7 September.

Resources

Every booking includes at least a term’s worth of education resources to help you and other teachers at your school bring music into the classroom and prepare your students for the performance.

This includes:

  • Up to 12 weeks of curriculum-aligned lesson activities
  • Interactive content that brings the musicians into the classroom with instructional videos
  • Student facing materials to encourage independent learning
  • Resources that are curriculum-aligned to all four national and state curricula

Read more and explore the Musica Viva Australia In Schools Education Resource Platform

Event notes

Financial Assistance

Musica Viva Australia is able to offer financial assistance to schools in need through our Equal Music program.

Support is available for low ICSEA and small schools, and for students facing financial or geographical barriers that would otherwise prohibit them from participating. Contact your state office or find out more information here.

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