WELCOME

To all Open Conservatorium Participants, Friends and Colleagues,

A core element which drew me to the role as Director here at QCGU was knowing how distinctive and central Open Conservatorium is to our identity and how important it is for music in Queensland. It has been a joy over the past couple of years to come to know, more from the inside, how firmly Open Conservatorium is established as an integral aspect of music education in Queensland.

Open Conservatorium's State Honours Ensemble Programs grew from modest beginnings in 2001 to hosting over 5,000 students each year through 16 individual programs in 10 centres; with many more being nominated than we are able to accommodate. The Australian Honours Ensemble Program, which celebrates six years in 2023, has also grown to encompass students from New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, and the Northern Territory.

Watching those who have joined us for the current project, after the past few years of upheaval, has highlighted the importance of music in education being available, regardless of region or resources; and how valued music is in schools, by all involved - students, teachers, families and the wider public. We are always pleased that so many students are willing, and able, to make music with their peers, with the support of their families and schools.

From my childhood in Cairns, I remember vividly the lifechanging dimensions of such interactions and will be doing all I can as Director to be supporting our reach across this extraordinary state. Thank you for your support of SHEP and your support of your children and students and their music education.

I also acknowledge the Open Conservatorium team under Jason Budge for their care and commitment to make everything possible. I hope to see many of you return as students of Queensland Conservatorium, performers and audience members of the future.

Professor Bernard Lanskey Director Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University