William Barton is a proud Kalkadunga man, a distinguished artist of extraordinary musicality and a virtuoso performer of the didgeridoo. He is also a renowned composer of the highest acclaim.
Over his long and remarkable career, William has performed across Australia, from large concert halls to regional music festivals. William has performed at many landmark events, reflecting the central importance of his music to Australian identity.
His generosity of sound and spirit have seen his work commissioned by some of the most outstanding ensembles from around the world.
The importance of William’s outstanding and enduring contribution has been recognised by many awards including the Artist Residency Peggy Glanville-Hicks Composers House (2020), Artist in Residence Melbourne Recital Centre (2019), Best Original Score for a Main Stage Production – The Long Forgotten Dream – Sydney Theatre Awards (2018), ARIA Best Classical Album – Kalkadungu: Music for Didjeridu and Orchestra (2012).
In his performances and compositions, William holds the awe and attention of audience members around the world.
William Barton is the 2021 recipient of the Australia Council Don Banks Music Award.