Announcing Adam Manning, the 2024/25 First Nations Artist Residency Program leader

Melbourne International Jazz Festival (MIJF), together with the Australian Art Orchestra (AAO), is excited to announce that Adam Manning has been selected as the 2024/25 First Nations Artist Residency program leader.

Born on Awabakal/Worimi Country, and with Kamilaroi kinship, Manning wears many hats—musician, artist, designer, producer and researcher at the University of Newcastle, NSW.

Through his expert use of percussion, Manning’s rhythmic expressions connect him to Land, People, Culture and Story—articulating the natural frequency (heartbeat) of Ngaya Barray (Mother Earth). His career has seen him share the stage with distinguished orchestras, collaborate with artists such as Keith Carlock, John Paul Young and James Morrison, and compose commissions for Ensemble Offspring and ABC Classic.

“A virtuosic clapstick cadenza performed by the composer melded traditional and contemporary techniques into a captivating display of timbre and rhythm” – The Age

Delivered in partnership between MIJF and the AAO, the First Nations Artist Residency Program was launched in 2021 to support the career development of a First Nations musician. As part of his residency, Manning will be supported by MIJF and the AAO to develop an ambitious new work, to be premiered at the 2025 Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

Adam Manning says of the program: “I’m incredibly excited to dive into this residency and explore new ways to connect rhythm and culture”.

Read more about the program here.

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