Media and Communications Blog

It’s been only a week since my first blog entry, yet since then we have all learnt so much more and my mind is swimming. Interviewing, presenting live, and having writings published have been just a few of the highlights amongst a busy and social week. One of the most valuable things has been the advice we have received from panel discussions and workshops. Amongst funny stories and memorable quotes shared, a resounding theme has emerged – the need to stay in touch with all parts of the musical ecosystem.

The musical ecosystem, is, like any ecosystem in the natural world, one of interconnectedness and mutual relationships. However, unlike in nature, this ecosystem sometimes needs to be pierced apart and interrogated to fully understand and take benefit. This important discussion began on a balmy evening on the lawn of St. Mark’s, as Media and Communications tutor Ed Le Brocq chatted to AYO Creative Director Monica Curro, and our three guest conductors, Alexander Briger, Natalia Luis-Bassa and Andrew Haveron. To lead into the discussion, Ed asked each about their respective approaches to music-making and whether there are any differences in the way they work with youth and professionals.

The short answer was… not really? Ed summarised their shared values, shaping culture at rehearsals and leading to great outcomes – “kindness, collegiality, openness and joy”.

In other words, music, trust and respect go at the centre of interaction – the rest takes care of itself. Each conductor shared their own philosophy and technique behind these principles, and I have done my best to note these down:

Andrew (when asked if he teaches and conducts in a collegial way particularly with young people), “I think that’s the way music works.”

Alex – learn other languages – especially if you’re trying to be an international conductor!

Natalia – “we have to express what life is… I am the same person as when I’m conducting and when I’m at home with my family. Mistakes will happen, and they will happen again. At the end of the day, I think I was put on this Earth to have fun.”

We couldn’t have asked for a more inspiring and enlightening discussion to begin camp, and it’s been wonderful to see how these ideas have been influencing us all throughout.

About National Music Camp

Founded in 1948, National Music Camp has become the cornerstone of our training. Over two intensive weeks, around 220 of the country’s most talented young musicians come together to be mentored by world-class tutors, artists, and conductors. They experience music-making at the highest national level as part of exceptional symphony or chamber orchestras.

Behind the scenes, aspiring arts leaders from the Media and Communication, Orchestral Management, and Sound Production programs collaborate to bring today’s concert to life. Whether crafting compelling narratives about music’s cultural impact, mastering stage management logistics, or capturing the magic of live performance in pristine audio, these participants are guided by industry experts, challenged, and inspired at every step.

Together with the Composition program, which fosters the creation of bold new works, this comprehensive approach to orchestral and arts administration training cultivates a dynamic environment where creativity and passion unite, lifelong friendships and collaborations are sparked, and Australia’s arts scene is reinvigorated. As the lifeblood of culture, the arts enrich our lives, connect us, challenge us, and transform us.

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