AASR Song Spotlight: Ode to Technology - Martin Wesley-Smith
We will be showcasing songs from the resource in regular updates. Today’s featured song is Ode to Technology, with music by Martin Wesley-Smith (1945-2017) and lyrics by his twin brother, Peter Wesley-Smith (1945- ).
This is a striking example of Australian art song that brings together humour, satire, and contemporary commentary. The text playfully reflects on our relationship with technology, offering performers a piece that is both engaging and highly relevant for modern audiences.
In the studio, Martin and Peter have proven to be masters of both rhythm and rhyme, with many pieces loved for both attention to text delivery and character work, encouraging singers to explore storytelling, timing, and vocal colour. These provide a contrast to more traditional repertoire, while still developing strong musical and interpretive skills. Ode also shows the equality between the voice and piano, with a large opening musical prelude before the voice enters the narrative - much like a joke with a winning punch line.
Pieces like Ode to Technology remind us that Australian art song is not only rich in history, but also bold, curious, and reflective of the world we live in.
Watch a performance by Flametree on our YouTube channel.
You’ll find all the links on the song page here.