Album Notes

Yidumduma Bill Harney is recognized throughout the world as an artist of high esteem on many different stages. He is a Master Storyteller, Songman, Didjeridoo Player/Maker, Painter, and Writer. All his art forms have the deepest roots in the celebration of his Wardaman Aboriginal heritage and his unique ability to “walk in both worlds” and communicate the joy of his culture to a global audience.

Yidumduma grew up in the “Bush University”, undergoing the fullest Wardaman ceremonial traditions and education. Being of mixed descent, he successfully evaded being a victim of the “Stolen Generation.” He avoided being taken away from his Aboriginal upbringing by the government

Today Yidumduma is the last fully initiated male Custodian of his people, the last male “Emeritus Professor” of his culture
He has been formally acknowledged as one of “Australia’s living national treasures” and his knowledge has been described by anthropologists as “encyclopedic” in nature.

This recording is a product of the Wardaman Dreaming Project, an ongoing endeavour to document Wardaman culture under the direction of Yidumduma. Concert recordings, 1-8, 10, 17, by Russ Hopkins at the Fiske Planetarium,
Boulder, Colorado, USA. Bush recordings, 11—16, 18-21, by Paul Taylor in Wardaman country, Victoria River District, NT, Australia. Photos: Gail Shive (cover, Nimji site), Lenny Glasser (Menngen Aboriginal Community)
For more detailed liner notes and further info go to www.paultaylor.ws/Bill Harney.