Commissioned by the Upper Hunter Shire Kia Ora Music festival in 2010, Sailing Home is a dedication to Jessica Watson. At just 16 years of age, Jessica Watson is the youngest person to sail solo non-stop and unassisted around the World. On January 25, 2011 she was awarded the prestigious Young Australian of the Year title. In January 2012, Jessica was announced in the Australia Day Honours list, receiving an OAM (Order of Australia Medal) for services to sailing and being a role model for the youth of Australia.
The piece is full of rousing melodies and meaningful lyrics and is an empowering piece for teenage girls to sing. Many of the lyrical ideas were inspired by Jessica’s book and diary.
Sample recording courtesy of the Hillcrest Christian College Choir, directed by Jenny Moon