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Women on the Podium Conducting Symposium 2024

September 25, 2024 in Women On the Podium Stories

Perth Symphony Orchestra proudly announces the return of our third annual Conducting Symposium!

This 10-day event will showcase emerging, intermediate, and advanced Women on the Podium 2024 Scholars. This intensive program provides an extraordinary opportunity for talented women conductors to explore repertoire by Verdi, Dvořák, Elgar, Grieg, Mendelssohn, and Britten.

Our 2024 Scholars will once again work with world-class faculty advisors, including internationally acclaimed conductors Alice Farnham and Jessica Gethin. Through live performance workshops and conducting masterclasses with Perth Symphony Orchestra musicians, they will sharpen their skills and master complex works.

For the second year, we are honoured to welcome Interstate Scholars for the opening weekend, representing Northern Territory, Victoria, and New South Wales. Their participation highlights Women on the Podium as a nationally significant program.

Beyond conducting, the symposium will feature a thought-provoking leadership session led by Tabitha McMullan, focusing on gender, inclusivity, and overcoming challenges in arts leadership. Additionally, our Scholars will enjoy a special Q&A with Synthony Conductor Sarah-Grace Williams, gaining insights into her groundbreaking work, including her collaboration with Perth Symphony at RAC Arena.

As part of our commitment to fostering understanding of the conductor’s craft, we’re offering a unique behind-the-scenes experience for donors and sponsors, who will observe Scholars in rehearsal and gain valuable insights into the intricacies of conducting.


CONDUCTING SYMPOSIUM OPEN WORKSHOP WITH AICE FARNHAM
Open to the public with only 3x spots left and 20x observer tickets!

For the first time, we are offering a ticketed workshop open to all genders and designed for music professionals and tertiary-level students.


Join an exciting three-hour conducting workshop with renowned conductor Alice Farnham.

Develop skills in connecting rhythmical accuracy with sound, character, and expression by exploring a wider gestural vocabulary that enhances your connection with your ensemble. You’ll also work on navigating tricky transitions—changes in tempo, meter and coming out of pauses.

Whether you’re a seasoned conductor seeking fresh inspiration or a curious musician eager to pick up the baton, this workshop promises an engaging and unforgettable experience. Spaces are limited and will fill up fast, so don’t miss out—reserve your spot today! Music will be provided upon application.

All participants will be given equal podium time.

Only 3x spots left to participate and 20x spots left to observe.
Click here to grab your tickets.


Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our donors and Principal Sponsor, Wesfarmers Arts, for their continued support in empowering women in the arts across Australia.

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Perth Symphony Orchestra acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land in which we live, work and play. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.