Australian Conducting Academy
About the program
The Australian Conducting Academy (ACA) is a unique training and mentorship program, enabling a cohort of high calibre emerging conductors the opportunity to work with Australian orchestras over an extended period and with world class conductors and pedagogues.
In partnership with the professional symphony orchestras across Australia, ACA is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of home-grown conductors and ensure the sustainability of the orchestral industry in Australia.
Throughout the year, successful candidates will work in modules with all the state orchestras to develop their talents and skills in the program best suited to their developmental level.
Introducing our ACA Director
The Program Director of the ACA is Benjamin Northey, a world-class Australian conductor who is currently the Chief Conductor of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and Principal Conductor, Artistic Advisor Learning and Engagement of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
"I know the next chief conductor of an Australian orchestra is out there...we just have to find them."
How to apply
Expressions of interest are invited from experienced conductors and orchestral musicians ready to take the interim step towards a professional career.
Find out more about how to submit an expression of interest below.
What ACA can offer you
- Podium time for participants with Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, West Australian Symphony Orchestra and Orchestra Victoria.
- Work with the finest instrumentalists across the country
- Access to a pool of exceptional mentors to identify, nurture and launch conductors into careers
- Mentoring by highly experienced national and international conductors with a real interest in conductor training and pedagogy
- A stipend to assist with accommodation and transport when travelling for the ACA modules
How does it work?
ACA has 3 parts:
1 – Launchpad
Groups of 8 are given technical training with industry mentors. Designed to identify talent and provide opportunities for further development.
2 – Masterclass
A small group of conductors are invited to work with a full orchestra to further refine their skills and experience.
3 – Showcase
Conduct a ‘career launching’ concert with a state orchestra, also signifying graduation from the ACA.
Submit an expression of interest
Expressions of interest (EOI) are invited from experienced conductors and orchestral musicians ready to take the interim step towards a professional career.
As conductors graduate from the ACA and a place becomes available, the Program Director will shortlist and invite select candidates to audition for inclusion into the program.
- You must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- You must be 18 years or older. There is no age limit
- You will need a recent video of yourself conducting. Please upload to Youtube as an unlisted Youtube video (find out how) and share the link in your EOI.
- You will need to submit a 1 page bio outlining your experience of conducting ensembles and orchestras.
Email Kim Waldock at waldockk@tso.com.au to submit an Expression of Interest. Please include your full name and a link to your unlisted Youtube video.
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