A Tribute to Norfolk Island’s Sacred Musical Heritage

A Tribute

Where Heritage Sounds Meet Historic Places

When Norfolk Islanders’ musical heritage meets heritage architecture, magic occurs.

Join us for an unforgettable journey through Norfolk Island’s rich music traditions, where rare archival recordings and a live organ recital performance unite in the sacred and intimate space of St Barnabas Chapel.

The immersive experience includes heritage recordings of traditional singing and the history of Norfolk Island's treasured hymns, some dating back to 1948, followed by a live recital on the chapel's 19th century Henry Willis Organ.

This musical tribute offers more than just beautiful music—it is a fascinating insight into the development and significance of Norfolk Island’s unique vocal traditions of hymn singing.

Hosted by Norfolk Islander and Churchill Fellow Jodie Williams, you’ll learn about her ethnomusicological research as interwoven with featured audio recordings from her extensive archival collection.

St Barnabas Chapel

As you sit in the historic wooden pews, surrounded by beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork, you'll be experiencing our treasured hymns in the very space where generations of islanders have gathered to sing them. This powerful connection to place adds another dimension to our musical heritage experience, creating memories that will linger long after your visit to our island.

Churchill Fellow

In 2013, Norfolk Islander Jodie Williams, was awarded a prestigious Churchill Fellowship to travel to the Isle of Man and the United Kingdom to trace Norfolk Island's sound heritage to its origins. Her ongoing research informs her insightful commentary, providing context that deepens appreciation of the hymns repertoire and our traditional singing styles.

Henry Willis Organ Recital

Boasting approximately 350 intricately crafted pipes, the organ produces an outstandingly beautiful and rich sound, perfectly complementing the chapel's unique acoustics and the perfect accompaniment to Norfolk Island's cherished hymnal tradition.

Programme

Listen to the distinctive features of Norfolk Island hymn singing: the natural harmonisation, the unhurried tempo, the pure vowel sounds, and the emotional expressiveness that makes our sound heritage so moving to listeners.

How to book: 'In the Sweet By and By'

This musical tribute runs every week throughout the year — a unique, recurring celebration you won’t want to miss.

Use the online calendar to check upcoming dates and event details easily from anywhere, anytime.

Pre-booking guarantees your seat and helps avoid disappointment due to limited capacity at this intimate venue.

Get in Touch

Contact In the Sweet By and By

Reach out to us for more information about our musical tribute events.

Email:

sweetbyandby@jodiewilliams.com

Phone: (Int+6723) 58088

(International call to Norfolk Island)

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