Musical Treasures
Our musical history, our musical nation, our musical treasures ... our libraries. In celebration of the landmark nationwide travelling exhibition National Treasures from Australia’s Great Libraries.
Explore musical themes that reflect and extend the eight concepts of the exhibition. These encapsulate events, people and places that have shaped Australia's history.
Under the Southern Cross
The Southern Cross was a guiding star for European explorers and remains a symbol of our national identity. Discover songs that first represented the idea of our nation.
Settlement, Land and Nature
Visit the colonies and see how the early settlers used music to express proud feelings towards their new home.
Hope and Hardship
Journey through the hope and hardship of emigration, the gold rush and the depression.
Heroes and Villains
Hero or villain? Meet some of the iconic figures from our past: aviators and sporting heroes, bushrangers and Anzacs. Even a horse!
War and Loss
Music has documented our participation in war, spanning stirring patriotic anthems and recruiting songs through to poignant elegies for the fallen.
Innovation and Industry
Celebrate innovation in music - from the grand design of the opera house to the craft of instrument making and discover songs about Australia’s progress in industry – from the car and aeroplane to the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
National Obsessions
What are Australia’s national obsessions? We’ve singled out odes to sport, the beach and our fascination with the royal family.
Culture
Enjoy highlights of Australia’s rich and vibrant cultural life, ranging from Percy Grainger to AC/DC, from the Bushwhackers to Dame Nellie Melba as well as our growing appreciation of Indigenous culture.
Hosted by the National Library of Australia on behalf of more than 50 cultural organisations around the nation