BY JOHN GLOVER
Welcome! This week, we officially launch CutCommon news (in 60 seconds).
We know it can take a while to trawl through all the headlines in your newsfeed. So we’ve compiled our top picks for you to absorb quickly – leaving you more time for practice (or procrastination).
Set your timer and have a read – we’re here to keep you up-to-date on the big events in your industry.
…and GO!
ABC CLASSIC FM GETS A LITTLE CONTROVERSIAL
The national music broadcaster has announced big changes for its 2018 program, and these are resonating throughout our community.
The ABC boasts new content, broadcasts, and talent – though, there’ll be no more Keys to Music with Graham Abbott, Phillip Sametz won’t return to present Classic Breakfast, and forever-host Margaret Throsby has officially left her post in The Saturday Morning Program.
On the flip side, there’ll be promising initiatives including weekly live concert broadcasts; a full line-up of presenters such as Vanessa Hughes, Greta Bradman, and Meena Shamaly; and a heavier focus on digital offerings and education. What do you think about the changes?
APRA AMCOS HAS A POOL OF $100,000 FOR YOU, COMPOSERS
APRA AMCOS is setting aside $100,000 per annum for you to create a “commissioned work that is complemented by an exploitation program”. You’ll receive a portion of the fund to craft your next best piece of music. So find some partners who will present your work, and collaborate with musicians, producers, broadcasters, and other talented artists in the industry. Learn more about how you can apply.
HIP HIP, HOORAY! IT’S ELENA’S 60TH
Australian composer Elena Kats-Chernin turns 60 this month. The writer of Wild Swans fame will party hard with her Big Birthday Bash this November 4 in the City Recital Hall. Elena says she’d rather see it as her “second 30th”, but we reckon there’s plenty of life (and music) to be celebrated in her newest decade. Happy birthday, Elena! (Keep an eye out for her new release, too.)
NEW FUND FOR YOUNG PERFORMERS
The Melbourne Youth Orchestras has established the Alexandra Cameron Memorial Fund to financially support Victorian musicians enrolled in its ensemble programs. It’s the orchestra’s 50th anniversary year and the fund honours the late MYO founder Dr Alexander Cameron in its name. The MYO states on its website: “She had boundless energy and worked tirelessly to provide inspirational musical and cultural opportunities for young musicians”. The new fund is surely set to do the same, and is accepting donations online.
TSO AUSTRALIAN COMPOSERS’ SCHOOL TO LAUNCH TWO-YEAR PROGRAM
The TSO Australian Composers’ School has announced it’ll host a two-year program for the first time, which aims to launch emerging composers into their careers throughout 2018-19. If you’re up for it, you’ll work with composer Matthew Hindson and visit Tasmania to work with the TSO in person. You’ll produce a fanfare, and orchestral work, a work for a soloist with orchestra, and undertake arrangements if Matthew reckons they’ll be good for ya. If you would like to get involved, visit the website.
That’s all, folks – see you next Friday for the next news round-up.
If you have news to share, why not get in touch? Editor@cutcommon.com.
