20/06/2024
It is with regret that we announce that Australian Autumn Music is closing. Due to the challenges posed by the changing nature of the post-pandemic digital landscape, as well the diverging paths of AAM partners Holly and Gene, AAM will wind up sales at the end of June 2024.
In 2022, after many months of brainstorming and planning, AAM launched its state-of-the-art online store with the works of two outstanding composers, Dindy Vaughan OAM (Melbourne) and Dr Jim Coyle (Sydney). A little while later, we were privileged to have Australian-Italian composer Davide Remigio join the team.
We had two main goals: 1) to specialise in the publication of sheet music for ensembles with mixed ability performers, while showcasing the talents of our skilful composers through the demonstration of high quality score publications and audio examples; and 2) to connect communities through music while educating young people, teachers and composers alike about the importance of creating new music for children’s performance.
Since starting AAM, we have had numerous and positive interactions with youth music groups, including the Resonance String Orchestra, a “not-for-profit regional, community, multi-tiered string orchestra program” in Victoria. In 2023, young members of the orchestra spoke with AAM about the experience (and importance) of performing music by local composers; these insights will be shared in a special upcoming podcast episode.
In an effort to further highlight the expertise which exists in this area of music, in November of 2023, AAM published a 50-minute online lecture by Sydney composer and academic Dr Jim Coyle titled A Guide for Music Educators and Composers Writing Music for Children’s Performance. This project was funded (through Pozible) by you, generous members of the AAM community who recognise the value of expert knowledge, and the benefit that such a resource might have for both emerging and established composers. We are immensely proud of these projects, and what we have achieved in a short period of time!
While we are sad AAM is coming to an end, we are proud of our small contribution. Music which reflects the real-life experience of a composer and young musician is gradually becoming better acknowledged, understood and welcomed within the practice of music. Our hope is that this appreciation continues to grow in a sustainable and fruitful way.
Holly Caldwell (TAS) & Gene Holland (VIC)
Australian Autumn Music
