New composer in residence at Gallop House

Prelude and the National Trust of Western Australia are pleased to welcome Gemma Turvey into residence at Gallop House, Dalkeith, as part of the 2018 Prelude Composers’ Residency program.

Gemma is the founder and Artistic Director of improvising chamber ensemble the New Palm Court Orchestra (NPCO). Gemma is an active composer. Her original compositions are the primary focus of her four studio recordings; Standing (2006), Into the Life of Things (2008), and with the NPCO; Landscapes for a Mind’s Eye (2012) and Between the Lines (2015). She has also composed for Australian TV Series Neighbours, short film, independent theatre, public installation and private commissions.

“I am so excited to be given this precious opportunity. Being a Prelude Composer is a great privilege, and I am looking forward to being in residence at the historic Gallop House in Perth,” said Gemma from her home in Melbourne prior to her arrival. “My main focus will be to orchestrate Clare McFadden’s picture-book The Flying Orchestra for the NPCO. I am so grateful to be given the dedicated time and space to bring this beautiful project to life, and can’t wait to get started!”

“Gemma will be the 4th composer to take up residency at Gallop House and the National Trust is thrilled to welcome her”, said Trust CEO, Julian Donaldson. “Her experience working with children will provide an opportunity for the Trust to extend our connections with these audiences.”

Prelude is a national residency program dedicated to supporting new works from Australian composers.  It offers long residencies in historic houses in Perth, Sydney and Adelaide, and it is open to composers of any genre, of any age (18+) and any career stage. Prelude has been created through a unique collaboration between Bundanon Trust, Peggy Glanville-Hicks Composers’ House, National Trust of Western Australia, National Trust of South Australia, National Trust of Australia (NSW), Australian Council of National Trusts, APRA AMCOS, Helpmann Academy, Arts SA, and the Australia Council for the Arts.