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 33: Christopher Lawrence - Cultural Broadcasting and Leadership in Australian Arts
This week's conversation features Christopher Lawrence, one of Australia's most distinguished broadcasters and cultural commentators, reflecting on his four-decade career at the forefront of classical music broadcasting and arts leadership.
Christopher shares fascinating insights from his career at the ABC, including memorable interviews with musical legends Stefan Grappelli and Stephen Sondheim. He discusses the evolution of classical music broadcasting in Australia, from the early days of ABC FM through to contemporary challenges.
Key discussion points include:
- The changing role of public broadcasting in Australian culture
- The development of the ABC Classic FM 'Swoon' phenomenon
- Programming classical music for contemporary audiences
- Arts governance and board leadership
- The role of youth orchestras in cultural development
- Reflections on Stuart Challender's legacy
- The future of Australian conducting
- Contemporary challenges in arts broadcasting
- The relationship between commercial and cultural imperatives
- Personal insights into legendary musical figures
Throughout the conversation, Christopher reflects on the evolving role of cultural institutions and the importance of maintaining artistic integrity whilst reaching new audiences.
Links:
About Christopher Lawrence: Christopher Lawrence is one of Australia's most experienced and respected music broadcasters, with a career spanning over 40 years. He has served on numerous arts boards and authored several books. He continues to be involved in arts governance and broadcasting from his base in Tasmania.
Episode Credits:
- Host: Samuel Cairnduff
- Guest: Christopher Lawrence
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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