20 January 2025.
The TSO-led program provides a chance for emerging conductors who identify as female and non-binary to practice and refine their skills.
Participants learn from a professional female conductor and gain hands-on experience.
Last year’s program was a resounding success, with seven participants from across Australia and the UK and US selected through an online application process.
In August, the emerging conductors took part in the weekend-long program, which included the chance to take to the podium to direct TSO musicians.
The host of last year’s program, Stockholm-based Australian conductor Jessica Cottis, describes the initiative as helping to ‘advocate both for access and balance within the classical music industry’.
This year’s program, scheduled to run April 12 and 13, will be led by conductor Ingrid Martin, who has worked with the MSO, QSO and TSO as well as New Zealand’s orchestras as NZ assistant conductor-in-residence. Ingrid is also a sought after coach, with over 15 years' experience mentoring conductors.
"Conductors are the conduit through which audiences and musicians connect with music, it's essential for classical music to keep thriving and evolving," Ingrid told TSO.
The program is free for successful applicants thanks to a generous bequest from the late Dr Louise Crossley; a TSO lover who took immense pride in ensuring representation and diversity on the conductor's podium.
Ingrid Martin will now carry on Dr Crossley's passion, helping nurture our future musical leader.
"I'm thrilled to work with the participants of the Louise Crossley Conductor Training Program, helping them develop their skills and artistic voices to bring back to their communities and ensembles," she says.
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