An Anzac Song for My Father with Dr Ian Chapman — NZ Music Month

Some songs begin with a story. This one begins with a bottom drawer full of medals, a shared love of the sea, and a father who kept his war years close to his chest.

This NZ Music Month, join Ōtepoti author, musician, and Honorary Senior Lecturer in Music at the University of Otago, Dr Ian Chapman, for an intimate presentation built around his latest song – a personal tribute to his late father's naval service.

Ian will walk audiences through the making of the track, the stories woven into it, and the music video lovingly assembled from his father's own war-era photo albums.

The recording features Ian's son playing his grandfather's tin whistle, the very same one carried on board during his navy years, alongside contributions from the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra, bagpipes, and arrangement by composer Anthony Ritchie.

Ian is one of Ōtepoti's most celebrated music writers, with published works including The Dunedin Sound, Experiencing David Bowie, Alastair Riddell's Space Waltz, and many more.

The session will run for approximately 30 minutes, including time for questions.