Inaugural Executive Director appointed for newly formed organisation Music in the Regions

One of Australia’s leading cultural strategists - Janine Collins - has been appointed as the inaugural Executive Director of Music in the Regions, a newly formed independent touring organisation that will connect classical musicians with regional audiences across NSW.

Collins will steer the organisation from its formation while overseeing the first program of performances to be launched in early 2022. Together with a series of board appointments, comprising some of the nation’s most respected cultural figures, Music in the Regions is now set to deliver transformative cultural experiences for musicians and audiences across the state.

Music in the Regions has been designed to support emerging and established musicians and small-to-medium music companies with greater performance opportunities around NSW. As they tour the state, the companies will work with regional conservatoriums, performing arts centres and local councils to integrate with communities and energise local musical life.

Professional and emerging musicians will perform in regions not traditionally visited by classical musicians and chamber orchestras, reinvigorating regional venues into concert venues and fostering a vibrant, world-class NSW classical music industry.

Music in the Regions Chair, Naseema Sparks also announced the appointment of the organisation’s inaugural Non-Executive Directors. They are Dr Erin Helyard, the renowned conductor, scholar and co-founder of Pinchgut Opera; Karen Moses, Deputy Chair of Sydney Symphony Orchestra; David Francis, Chief Executive of Wollongong Conservatorium and previously Executive Director of Four Winds Festival; Jan Bowen; and Sue Procter, Director of Business Operations, Investment and Governance, at Create NSW.

NSW Minister for the Arts Don Harwin notes “Music in the Regions was a recommendation from the Create NSW Classical Music Artform Advisory Board to bring more classical musicians into our regional communities. The NSW government provided significant seed funding to get the project up and running. With these appointments the stage is now set for the touring to begin!”

Sparks advised “The Board was extremely pleased with the calibre of applicants and we are delighted to welcome Janine Collins to Music in the Regions as inaugural Executive Director. Music in the Regions has a purpose to deliver classical music to communities not currently served by regular touring organisations and in doing so increasing opportunities for musicians and audiences alike. Janine has broad-based experience, and she is an innovative, strategic thinker who will bring a “can do” attitude to our organisation. We look forward to working with regional organisations and artists on this exciting new initiative.”

Collins added “I can’t wait to create new opportunities for both musicians and audiences to connect all over NSW. We'll help shine a light on our regional gems in terms of both talent and locations while contributing to greater love for the arts in Australia.”