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Decoding Cultural Leadership
Decoding Cultural Leadership is a podcast that explores the intersection between the arts, culture and society and interrogates what it means to be a cultural leader in the 21st century.
In each episode, host Samuel Cairnduff talks with some of the most influential organisational leaders, creators, policy-makers and thought leaders, building an understanding of their approach to shifting the dial in a complex, constantly changing world.
By talking to influential leaders whose voices resonate in the community, Decoding Cultural Leadership seeks to gain a deeper perspective on how cultural organisations see their role in the community, how they make hard decisions, and how they address the needs of multiple stakeholders.
Culture and society are deeply connected. Decoding Cultural Leadership explores this complex relationship through deep conversation with our greatest cultural leaders. Join us as we decode cultural leadership.
Decoding Cultural Leadership.
Culture. Society. Conversations
Decoding Cultural Leadership
Episode 22: Kimbali Harding: Australian Youth Orchestra CEO on the the power of youth orchestras: shaping lives through musical participation.
As the CEO of the iconic Australian Youth Orchestra (AYO), Kimbali Harding has a unique vantage point on shaping the future of classical music in Australia. In this insightful conversation, Harding shares her own remarkable journey - from a dedicated piano prodigy to a passionate music educator - and the transformative role of mentors like the legendary Richard Gill.
Kimbali unpacks the multifaceted mission of the AYO, which goes far beyond just training the next generation of orchestral musicians. She reveals how the AYO is evolving to prepare young artists for the rapidly changing classical landscape, emphasizing creativity, resilience, and deeper community engagement.
Kimbali also discusses the AYO's upcoming European tour as a cultural ambassador for Australia, and the challenges of advocating for sustainable funding and support for youth orchestras amidst a shifting arts sector.
Through Kimbali's words, we gain a rich understanding of immersive musical experiences' profound impact on young lives - from igniting new passions to developing crucial life skills. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in Australia's future of classical music and the arts.
Key Takeaways:
- The transformative power of mentorship and music education, as exemplified by pioneers like Richard Gill
- How youth orchestras like the AYO are adapting to prepare 21st century musicians for success
- The AYO's dual role as a training ground for orchestral virtuosos and a platform for personal growth
- Harding's insights on the advocacy work required to sustain and champion youth music programs
Don't miss this inspiring look at the vital work being done to cultivate the next generation of musical leaders and cultural ambassadors.
Links:
The Australian Youth Orchestra
Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media
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samuelcairnduff.com
@samuelcairnduff
Read Sam's Substack here.
Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff
Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh
Presented in association with Limelight
Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations