The Women on the Podium initiative is a comprehensive program providing a pathway for aspiring female conductors and music leaders to excel.
Participants benefit from workshops, conducting masterclasses, and insightful discussions with industry experts.
Renowned faculty members Alice Farnham (UK), Jessica Gethin (AU), and Kris Bowtell (AU) provide mentorship, developing skills in conducting, musicianship, and leadership.
This initiative is proudly supported by Women on the Podium Lead Partner, Wesfarmers Arts
Join us for the 2025 Symposium! #
We're excited to invite you to apply for our upcoming Symposium on the 10-13 April 2025, a gathering of passionate individuals who are eager to explore the latest advancements in our field.
What to Expect:
- Engaging discussions, masterclasses and networking opportunities.
- A chance to become a 2025 Scholar: Selected participants will be offered further study opportunities throughout the year.
- Collaboration with UWACS: Express your interest in becoming a 2025 UWACS Fellow (open to WA residents only).
Open to All:
This program is primarily designed for female-identifying and non-binary individuals. However, we believe in inclusivity and will be hosting an Open Session welcoming participants of all genders.
Financial Assistance Available:
The 2025 Conducting Symposium will likely cost a fee of $500. However, thanks to the generous support of PSO and our sponsors, bursaries are available to cover the cost for full-time students and those facing financial hardship
Important Dates:
- Application Deadline: Friday, February 21st
- Notification of Acceptance: First week of March
TESTIMONIALS
“As an Advanced Scholar, I’m so appreciative of the opportunities we’ve had to work with amazing musicians already, including a professional string quintet and the WAAPA Symphony Orchestra. I learn so much with every workshop and am very excited for the coming year.”
- Sarah Mills Menogue, Advanced Scholar 2023
“I am honoured to be a 2023 intermediate scholar for Women on the Podium, I can’t believe that I was lucky enough to experience the entire rehearsal process with Perth Symphony Orchestra for their 100 Years of Disney concert. It was a dream come true! Through watching Jessica Gethin work with PSO I have already learned tips on how to work with a very tight rehearsal schedule, how to conduct with multimedia elements and can’t wait to see what else the year holds for those of us lucky enough to be in the program!”
- Claire Nankivell, Intermediate Scholar 2023
“Without Women on the Podium, I would not have discovered and grown my love of conducting, nor been able to study it to the extent that I have throughout my years in the program. Conducting is a very personal and exposing thing to do, so to learn this craft in an environment that is full of like-minded and supportive women helps provide us with the space to grow with confidence.”
- Jasmin Parkinson-Stewart, Advanced Scholar 2023