Chris Kempster Project

After Chris Kempster's death in January 2004, a group began work towards producing a CD of all the music Chris wrote throughout his life.

Chris went out of his way to assist others in their musical endeavours, and never got around to collecting his own work on one CD.

The emerging product is a unique compilation, showcasing the voices of some of Australia's finest, and some overseas artists as well - Roy Bailey, Martyn Wyndham-Read, Priscilla Herdman. All of these singers have had direct and affectionate links with Chris over the years.

The plan is to launch the CD at the National Folk Festival, Canberra, at Easter 2006.

Many of Chris's songs are already recorded by various musicians, and many have already given us permission to use their work. Should there be a profit from the sale of the CD, a reprint of Chris's book "The Songs of Henry Lawson", is envisaged.

Work towards the making of the CD is voluntary, and has the ongoing support of the Folk Federation of New South Wales, but the costs of professional production are considerable. At this point the folk community has generously donated about $4,000, and it is estimated that the double album will cost about three times that. This is where you come in!

Interested individuals, folk clubs and festivals and other organisations are being asked to sponsor the project, at a flat rate of $200.

In return for your sponsorship, you will be acknowledged in the CD booklet, and can include, if you wish, a brief quote giving your reasons for sponsoring the CD. You will also receive three CDs after production.

download sponsorship form

Chris Kempster Project