Grainger writes "No traditional tunes of any kind are made use of in this piece, in which I have wished to express feelings aroused by thoughts of the scenery and people of my native land (Australia), and also to voice a certain kind of emotion that seems to me not untypical of native-born Colonials in general."
 
Originally scored in 1911 for soprano, tenor, harp and full orchestra in 1911 - Colonial song is arranged here for brass quintet from Grainger's own piano score. This lovely work will challenge group intonation, ensemble, and endurance, and should be an excellent team building exercise.