The dancing brolga: a musical journey of deepening connection to identity

This project explores through musical practice, songwriting and storytelling, my identity as an artist, musician and Aboriginal woman. My story is intrinsically connected to who I am by birth, how and with whom I identify with and the ways I portray and present my stories. My journey toward reconnection with my culture is an ongoing theme. I am an artist, a musician, a storyteller and receiver. I am Aboriginal, I am Murri like my Grandmother and her Grandmothers. The Waibene culture my Father grew up in fills my spirit and my calling back to his childhood place is part of my ongoing journey. I am a woman. I am Monica Weightman. I am Brolga. I am drawn to the Dreaming Story of the Brolga. My interpretation of this story is the foundation for this paper. My music is my dance. My music is central to my journey, my identity.