The ABC’s Classic 100 is a celebration of classical music. Her nominated piece is an orchestral work called The Space Between Stars, that was composed in 2017 while she was working with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra.
In exploring this work within the musical learning experiences at IGS, Director of Music, Darren Kuilenburg is working in association with Ella Macens to explore The Space Between Stars as the stimulus piece for the Year 11 SAGE Trip, Writing The Island in Term 3.
“When I began composing this work, I imagined the listener laying in an open field – the earth in total stillness. I imagined them gazing up at the night sky, watching as it glowed with millions of bright shining stars,” Ella said.
“I pondered the questions ‘what is the space between stars? Is this space empty? Is this space silent? Could this space be charged with the energy of those who are no longer with us?’.”
“Through this piece I wanted to convey the energy and magic of our night sky, and explore the power I believe it holds. I wanted to explore the delicate and graceful elements, such as the flickering lights, the beautiful tones and the soft smudge of a falling star, as well as the bold and triumphant concept of the enormous constellations surrounding us.
As well as working with the students at IGS, Ella also teaches composition, music theory and aural skills at the University of Sydney and Sydney Conservatorium of Music, and is Composer in Residence at Presbyterian Ladies’ College, Sydney.
Ella is a fast-emerging composer with a passion for choral, orchestral and chamber music writing. Capturing qualities from both popular and classical music styles as well as that of her Latvian heritage, Ella’s music is becoming well-known in Australia and beyond.
Ella has completed a Bachelor of Music (Composition) with first class honours at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, The University of Sydney, and is currently studying a Master of Music (Composition) under the guidance of Professor Matthew Hindson AM.
We invite the IGS community to vote for Ella here.
Voting closes at 9am on Monday 7 June.