BY ZOE DOUGLAS-KINGHORN, LEAD WRITER
Gender equality. What does it look like in the orchestra? Blind auditions and gender-neutral concert blacks may bring balance into classical music, but orchestral leadership still tends to fall (quite literally) into in the hands of men on the podium.
This year, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra has chosen to push for change, and inspire and engage more diverse musical leaders. Under the direction of acclaimed conductor Elena Schwarz, seven emerging artists will undertake an experience like no other: a program to nurture the development of female conductors.
The TSO’s new Louise Crossley Conducting Workshop is funded through the bequest of Dr Louise Crossley. An eminent Tasmanian scientist, environmentalist, and politician, Crossley was a big fan of the TSO and proud of women forging careers in the orchestra. But to her legacy, she hoped one day orchestras across the world would have as many women at the helm as men.
In this series, we meet some of these future leaders.
Introducing Nickea Warrener
Central Queensland-raised Nickea Warrener first studied flute and education before taking an interest in conducting. From there, she started leading community ensembles including the Indooroopilly Chamber Orchestra and Musical Chairs. She has also conducted services at St John’s Cathedral in Brisbane.
Nikea works as a music specialist in Logan, Queensland and sings in a choir at St John’s Cathedral.
Why do you conduct?
The first reason is selfish: I enjoy conducting. I also find the language of non-verbal communication fascinating! How is it that a small gesture can completely change the sound of an orchestra? I love shaping the sound produced by an orchestra, and helping them to make the sound even better!
My second reason is to share music with others. I believe the common goal of the orchestra and conductor is to share great music with people. I think that as conductors, we often forget that. We get so wrapped up in learning about our technique that we forget why we do what we do.
I believe a conductor can inspire and empower people – I know this is true, as I have been one of those inspired and empowered. I want to be able to give other people the same inspiration I received and help others develop a love of music.
How important is it to ensure women conductors are supported in musical leadership?
Very important! Females have every right to be in leadership roles, especially in music. Gender equality is becoming more important in all occupations. It is about your skillset, not about your gender.
I would love to see more female conductors conducting community and professional orchestras.
What’s your dream piece to conduct and why?
Symphony No. 9 [by Beethoven], Kodály’s Dances of Galánta, and Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite are the first three on my conducting bucket list. Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy Op. 80 is another piece that would be amazing to conduct.
The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra’s new Louise Crossley Conducting Workshop takes place in Hobart on 12 August, 2018.
Stay tuned to read more interviews with the talented new conductors taking part!
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