New two-part documentary for RTÉ lyric FM’s the Lyric Feature explores how Irish
composers are responding to the climate and biodiversity crisis through their work.
Presented by Jonathan Grimes of the Contemporary Music Centre, We Only Want The
Earth asks if music can inspire us to take ownership of what’s happening and help us
imagine and shape a better future?
A keen cyclist, Jonathan took the route of slow travel to record the series and cycled over a
thousand kilometres from the hills of Belfast to the Blackwater Valley, meeting with
composers to find out how they are engaging with the climate emergency. We hear how
artists are grappling with the crisis at a practical, artistic and existential level, and sounding
the transformation of our world through their music. In a time of overwhelming global
uncertainty, what role can artists play? Can their music bring us hope and inspire positive
action? The series features music and conversations with composers Sebastian Adams,
Natalia Beylis, Éna Brennan, Robert Coleman, Gráinne Mulvey, Karen Power, Judith
Ring, Nick Roth, Jennifer Walshe and Ian Wilson, and contributions from climate scientist
Hannah Daly and musicologist Stephen Graham.
“I think it’s safe to say that I have been listening in the most remote places on our planet and
I have been forever changed by them. And part of that change is in hearing the effects of
humans and of industry […] you can’t unhear these things.” – Karen Power, composer
“[Music is] a powerful platform to voice your opinion. Anyone who has even a small platform
should be using it for good.” – Judith Ring, composer
“Every species has its own way of expressing this delight in existing, so that’s what we need
to tap into. And all of the arts are fuel for that kind of energy.” – Nick Roth, composer
Broadcast Dates:
● We Only Want the Earth Episode 1: Once Heard You Can’t Unhear It
Sunday 17 March on the Lyric Feature, RTÉ lyric FM at 6pm.
Listen back on the RTÉ radio player.
● We Only Want the Earth Episode 2: Music Fuels Life
Sunday 24 March on the Lyric Feature, RTÉ lyric FM at 6pm.
Listen back on the RTÉ radio player.
