About the artist
‘Kiangardarup’ is an evocative original composition by Robert Zielinski for violin, wooden flute, cello and bouzouki, inspired by the Torbay Inlet in Western Australia’s Great Southern region, where Robert lived working as a violin maker and touring musician.
It takes the listener on a journey from the awakening dawn, through the heat of the day to dusk, to a still night under the canopy of the giant karri trees and stars. An immersive experience, with sounds of the South West Australian bush accompanying the four musicians.
‘Kiangardarup’ comes from the country of the Minang people. As one of the original names of the Torbay Inlet and surrounding area, this name was given to Robert by Minang elder Vernice Gillies.
Robert was taught traditional Irish music from the older generation, first in Australia, and then on the west coast of Ireland, where he lived for 14 years. His mentor in Australia was Mick Doherty, nephew of the iconic Donegal travelling fiddle player Johnny Doherty. After his return to Australia, Robert moved to Torbay, making violins, including his own. In ‘Kiangardarup’, elements of the old Irish music tradition are combined with Robert’s affinity with the Australian bush.
‘Kiangardarup’ received a standing ovation at its world premiere in the Perth Concert Hall in May 2024, and has since been steadily gaining world-wide recognition. The album ‘Kiangardarup’, released in November 2024, won three silver medals at the Global Music Awards and was a winner at the InterContinental Music Awards 2025.
At Nannup, Robert will be joined by Manuela Centanni on wooden flute. Together they will bring ‘Kiangardarup’ to Nannup Music Festival, a rare treat of music inspired by the South West, performed in the South West.
“It is music that will transport you” – Semra Lee, Assistant Concertmaster of West Australian Symphony Orchestra.
“It cuts through rules and genres of music in a pure celebration of life” – Lucky Oceans, Grammy award winning musician, former ABC Radio National presenter
