Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Bourby Webster

3 Questions - 2 Insights - 1 unique photo with remarkable women musicians

Visionary leader, entrepreneur, and passionate arts advocate – Bourby Webster wears many hats and shatters expectations every step of the way. From her groundbreaking work founding Perth Symphony Orchestra to her innovative Arts@Work program, she believes in the power of music to transform lives and industries.

Bourby's diverse background in music, sports, and business fuels her unique approach. She's not afraid to break the mould and embrace the future of the arts. This drive is evident in her upcoming production of Avatar: The Last Airbender in Concert, presented by her company, North Street Music, on 15 June at Perth’s Riverside Theatre.

Get ready to dive deep into Bourby's world as she shares her insights on navigating the music industry, staying motivated, and the importance of confidence for young women in the arts.

Who is a ground-breaking female composer who you think deserves more recognition?

Two groundbreaking contemporary composers who deserve wider recognition are Caroline Shaw and Missy Mazzoli. Each has a brilliantly unique voice, and their music always gives me goosebumps. Caroline Shaw's experimental approach pushes the boundaries of what music can be, inspiring me to be more daring in my own work. Missy Mazzoli's music is bold and dramatic, reminding me of the power music has to tell compelling stories. I believe they belong on the world's biggest stages, like the London Proms, alongside the most celebrated composers.

What's a recent discovery you've made in music composed by women?

My exciting recent discovery is Amy Beach. I've been captivated by hearing her music on the radio, and it blows my mind that she's not a household name. Her music is so expressive, with lush harmonies and sweeping melodies. I'm incredibly excited to perform the sublime slow movement from her Piano Quintet in Mirabilis Collective's upcoming "Solace in the City" concert. It's a perfect fit for the theme, offering a moment of profound beauty and reflection for the audience.

How do you think the music industry can better support and uplift women artists and composers?

The biggest difference I see for female composers is the scale of opportunity. Their works often play to smaller audiences, in smaller venues, because there's less willingness to take financial risks on large-scale productions by women. The music industry needs to better support women artists and composers by taking those risks. The music is extraordinary! But it's a chicken and egg situation – these works won't become popular unless they're given the same platforms as their male counterparts.

As female musicians, we can drive positive change, but it can't just be about doing our jobs well and hoping others notice. In my time leading Perth Symphony Orchestra, it wasn't until I became proactive, with initiatives like 'Women on the Podium,' that I realised the power of creating opportunities for others. That's when the doors started opening.

We can't simply aim for individual success and expect change to follow. We have to advocate, encourage, lead, and actively create spaces – like you've done with Mirabilis Collective! Otherwise, talented women will keep seeing our successes as exceptions, thinking 'I'm glad she did it, but that's not possible for me.' We have to reach out and pull them up with us.

How do you stay motivated and creative in the challenging landscape of the music industry?

The music industry is constantly evolving, and the current climate can be particularly difficult. However, I have an unshakable belief in the enduring power of art. Even if funding cuts and shifting priorities create obstacles, the human need for creative expression will always exist. Music fills a fundamental role in our lives, and people will always find ways to create and experience it.

That conviction keeps me motivated. Rather than clinging to the past, I focus on the future. I'm excited to explore new technologies, like AI, and form innovative partnerships – bringing music into unexpected spaces, like the corporate world, where creativity has immense untapped value.

This requires an adaptable mindset. If we can align the arts with broader societal needs, demonstrating their relevance to challenges like the environment, I believe the arts can thrive despite any temporary setbacks.

What piece of advice specifically tailored for women starting in the music industry do you wish you had received?

Throughout my career, I've sometimes felt apologetic or focused too much on being liked. While kindness and collaboration are essential, I've learned the importance of confidence, clarity, and assertiveness.

Instead of over-explaining or couching requests in soft language, young women should be direct about what they need and expect without fearing it makes them arrogant. It's about stating your vision with conviction and allowing your work and ambition to speak for themselves. This is a change in attitude, not personality. We can maintain our values like nurturing and compassion while still being clear and decisive.

Remember, bravery is key. Don't be afraid to step up, be clear about your goals, and ask directly for what you need to achieve them.

Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Rachel Singer

3 Questions - 2 Insights - 1 unique photo with remarkable women musicians

Rachel Singer is a notable force in the choral world, skilfully blending her roles as a performer and arts administrator. Her journey from earning a Masters in Classical Consort Singing at the University of York to performing on prestigious stages like Carnegie Hall showcases her diverse talents. She has enriched various ensembles, including Ensemble Pro Victoria and The Lacock Scholars, with her commitment to excellence in choral singing.

Beyond performing, Rachel's leadership in arts administration has bolstered the success of groups across Australia and the UK, such as I Fagiolini and The National Youth Choir of Australia. As The Giovanni Consort's General Manager, she elevates Western Australia's premier chamber choir, championing local talent and expanding the reach of choral music.

This month's Sisters in Sync features Rachel sharing her musical influences, including the impact of women composers and strategies for addressing the music industry's challenges. Her involvement in the upcoming "Requiem for an Empress" underscores her role in steering The Giovanni Consort towards innovative projects, embodying her commitment to the ensemble's growth and the enrichment of the choral music landscape.

Who is a female musician that has been a source of inspiration in your musical journey?

Over the years I have taken inspiration from a number of formidable women, but my passion for choral singing and my musical education really began with Celia Christmass, and her implementation of Kodály pedagogy into the music program at Perth Modern School. She instilled a collaborative and community-minded music-making that has stayed with me to this day, and I am so grateful for the high standards of musicianship and performance she encouraged from even the smallest musicians she taught. 

Is there a particular performance by a female musician that has significantly impacted you? 

I was immensely fortunate to be in the audience at Wigmore Hall early last year for French-Italian mezzo-soprano Lea Desandre’s performance with Ensemble Jupiter of their programme ‘Amazone’ - an exploration of the strength and agility of the mythic Amazons. We were treated to furious and fiery melodic runs by composers such as Vivaldi and Couperin, juxtaposed against sensuous and impassioned musical climaxes, which relaxed into dreamy instrumental pastorals.

Fortunately this programme is captured on their CD of the same name, which I can’t recommend highly enough!

Could you share a favourite composition by a woman that resonates with you?

I came across the American composer Sarah Rimkus (b. 1990) whilst programming my final recital for the Masters of Consort Singing at the University of York, in late 2021. Her work ‘Mater Dei’ interweaves the Yeats poem ‘The Mother of God’ above a simple plainchant ‘Ave Maria’ base, and explores the wonder and terror of motherhood and womanhood to devastating effect.

‘What is this flesh I purchased with my pains,

This fallen star my milk sustains,

This love that makes my heart's blood stop

Or strikes a sudden chill into my bones

And bids my hair stand up?’

How do you stay motivated and creative in the challenging landscape of the music industry?

I have always felt that one of the most challenging elements of working in music is the need to carefully balance the demands of executing the project right in front of you, whilst developing and nurturing the project far off on the horizon.

Often when I am feeling overwhelmed with competing demands, or feel in the need for some extra creative juice I try to look to the horizon - both literally, in searching out the nearest bit of coastline and spending time by the ocean, as well as conceptually, in spending time searching out and sitting with new and underrepresented works, and exploring opportunities for new collaborations.

What's a valuable lesson you've learned throughout your career?

A crucial lesson I have learnt over recent years is around the challenges of and the immense rewards inherent in diverse concert programming. It can be challenging to overcome constraints around the availability of scores and parts, and resource-intensive to look beyond the Western classical canon, but it is both a privilege and a responsibility to put time towards this pursuit.

It has been a great joy in recent years to come across resources such as the Institute for Composer Diversity, which allows you to search by ensemble, voicing and instrumentation, as well as the composer’s gender identity and sexual/romantic orientation, and more.

Resources such as this (very thoroughly and conveniently summarised on the Tenth Muse Initiative’s ‘Organisations and Resources’ page!) have been a huge aid in programming lesser-known works!

Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Fiona Campbell

3 Questions - 2 Insights - 1 unique photo with remarkable women musicians

Fiona Campbell OAM is one of Australia's most celebrated mezzo-sopranos and a powerhouse of creativity shaping the future of classical music. From her award-winning performances to her roles as producer and arts leader, Fiona embodies the dynamic versatility at the heart of the arts scene.

As Perth Symphony Orchestra’s Creative Director, Fiona is constantly finding innovative ways to bring classical music to life. Case in point: PSO’s upcoming Taylor Made concert. This unique performance reimagines Taylor Swift's music with orchestral flair – a testament to Fiona's commitment to fresh experiences, proving that even familiar genres can offer a fearless and fun twist with inspirational creative vision.

Is there a particular performance by a female musician that has significantly impacted you? 

Being onstage with Lorraine Hunt-Lieberson at Glyndebourne Festival Opera, singing the role of Irene in Handel’s Theodora, many years ago, was astonishingly powerful for me as a young singer. She took the music ‘off the page’ in a way I had never heard anyone do before. Her embodiment of the text and music was completely inspirational and something I still aspire towards in my music making.

What moment in your career made you feel most empowered as a woman in the music industry? 

I would have to say being appointed as Creative Director for Perth Symphony Orchestra. It was the culmination of years as a professional musician and working hard to make pathways into artistic direction. It is an incredible privilege to lead the artistic vision for a company, particularly one that is known for #breakingtherules. Now I’m incredibly fortunate to be in this position, where I can really enjoy flexing my creative muscles, produce a wide variety of concerts and employ a huge number of extraordinarily talented artists and musicians.

In what ways do you believe female musicians can drive positive change within the music industry? 

Most positively through empowerment and mentorship. Female musicians can serve as positive role models and mentors for aspiring artists, particularly other women and girls. By generously offering guidance, providing support, encouragement, and opportunities, it really is possible to empower the next generation of musicians to pursue their dreams and navigate the challenges of the industry.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to build a career in music? 

Find your ‘voice’, the thing that makes you, uniquely you! There is of course the necessity to work hard, and the discipline required to master your instrument, but I would add, work smart, work generously and work with joy. Look beyond the mainstream way of presenting music, and ask yourself what resonates with you? What is it about music that excites you? And chase that!

Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Jessica Gethin

3 Questions - 2 Insights - 1 unique photo with remarkable women musicians

Jessica Gethin, Principal Conductor of the West Australian Ballet, is renowned for her dynamic conducting across global stages. In March Jessica Gethin conducts the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra in "Hopelessly Devoted: A Celebration of Olivia Newton-John". This concert honours International Women's Day 2024 and supports the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness Centre.

What's one piece of advice from a woman in music that has stuck with you? 

Nicole Paiement is a wonderful conductor I was mentored by in Dallas and San Francisco. I'll never forget her saying that to truly be able to understand, interpret and express the music at a deep level, we must become the most fully rounded version of ourselves; read ravenously, study literature, breathe in architecture, talk to people from all walks of life etc.  Also, Simone Young said it was never really a 'good' time to have children in a conducting career, just do it... so I did!

Can you name a ground-breaking female artist or composer who you think deserves more recognition?

I’ve been listening to the orchestral works of Florence Price recently. Hers is a remarkable story to overcome double prejudice to be the first African-American and female composer recognised in the early 1900's. I think she gets programmed a bit in the US but I haven't heard much of her work performed live in Australia. 

Can you share an experience where collaborating with other women significantly influenced your work?

In 2022 I experienced the most incredible collaboration as conductor for Opera Queensland's world premiere season of 'The Sopranos'. It examined the way women are represented within opera, and the opportunities women are given to shape how these stories are told. The production was written by a woman, containing works by Australian women composers and almost wholly led by women from myself to Australia's top sopranos. The authentic level of support and elevation of each other's work was completely refreshing and encouraging throughout the whole journey, and made a huge impact on my work process moving forward. 

What's a valuable lesson you've learned throughout your career?

Focus on what you can do; it's OK to not always have the perfect answer, or always be the very best or always the most successful; that doesn't mean you don't have something worthy and valuable to offer. Instead, work hard, show integrity, be prepared and stay true to your cause. 

What strategies have you found effective to overcome creative blocks or periods of self-doubt?

I think building a good support network plus realising 'I am not my job'; separating what you do from who you are, is a big help in this area. I actually schedule in self care now (and no longer feel guilty for it!). It's a must when navigating my hectic schedule but also the huge amount of pressure placed on you each time you step onto a podium. 

Celebrating a Year of Growth and Impact with Mirabilis Collective

As we approach the end of 2023, it's a time to pause and reflect on the incredible journey we've embarked upon with Mirabilis Collective. Our inaugural year has been marked by groundbreaking achievements, meaningful collaborations, and a steadfast commitment to elevating women's voices in music.

Hear Me, Hear My Name: A Bold Beginning

Our year commenced with a creative development and performance of Hear Me, Hear My Name, which we presented to industry peers in March at Ross Memorial Church. This project set a powerful precedent for our year, enabling us to trial a programme as a new ensemble and receive valuable feedback from our invited colleagues. We also performed a world premiere on the eve of International Women's Day — our  commissioned work, Her Time,  composed by the exceptionally talented West Australian composer Emily Gelineau with poetry by Lang Leav. It was exciting to perform Her Time as both a new composition and a bold statement of our mission and vision.

Performances at Wesley and Ross Memorial Churches

Later in March we gave our first public performance for the Wesley at One recital series. A huge thank you to Uniting Church in the City and Musical Director Angela Currie for their support to help get Mirabilis Collective up and running. We presented a second concert for UCIC later in August back at Ross Memorial. It was wonderful to connect with our audience, creating a shared experience of emotional depth and artistic expression.

Empowering Our Vision: The Fundraising Campaign

Our aspirations were bolstered by the support of our patrons through the Australia Cultural Fund. This campaign was crucial in transforming our artistic ambitions into memorable experiences for our audience.

Bridging Education and Creativity

Uniting educational excellence with artistic expression, Mirabilis Collective's partnerships with the University of Western Australia and local Perth schools have marked a significant chapter in our year. We had the pleasure of including two UWA piano students in our Verses in Velvet concert. For our year-end performance, The Ties That Bind, we welcomed two students from Methodist Ladies College. These collaborations not only enriched our performances but also highlighted our commitment to supporting emerging talent and blending education with the arts.

Her Voice Resounds

Our debut concert season, Her Voice Resounds, comprising performances in August and September at Wigmore Studio, and December at Wesley Church, was a highlight of our year. Each concert was a unique showcase of the richness and diversity of women's contributions to music featuring women from multiple generations playing genre-defying repertoire.

Albany's Harbourside Series

In Albany, our performance for the Harbourside series stood out as a significant achievement in 2023. This concert was an impactful experience where our music deeply resonated with the audience. Marking our first performance in regional Western Australia, it underscored our commitment to bringing the compositions of women to a broader audience, beyond the metropolitan area. This step aligns with Mirabilis Collective's core mission: to share and celebrate the work of women composers across diverse communities.

Illuminate: Our 2024 Season

Looking ahead to 2024, we are thrilled to announce our upcoming season, Illuminate, featuring four concerts: Shimmer, Luminous, Glow, and Shine. Each concert in this series is designed to showcase the brilliance and diversity of women's music, creating a tapestry of sound that enlightens and inspires. Tickets are now available for all concerts, with discounts offered for season tickets. Secure your seats and be part of this enlightening journey at Mirabilis Collective Performances.

Reflecting on Our Achievements

Reflecting on this year, I'm drawn to the words of Bonnie Raitt: "If you stick to your integrity and your goals, eventually somebody will appreciate what you are doing on a wider scale." This year, Mirabilis Collective has truly embodied this principle. We've focused on our core values, achieving a significant impact through our dedication and purpose. Our efforts have highlighted the strength, resilience, and creativity of women in music, creating meaningful connections with our audience.

Looking Ahead with Purpose

As we turn our gaze to the new year, Mirabilis Collective embarks on the next chapter with renewed energy and clear focus. In 2024, our commitment deepens to create music that not only resonates but also makes a lasting impact. We're dedicated to sharing narratives that engage and inspire, while continuing to highlight the voices of women composers, whose contributions are often underrepresented. This journey ahead is not just about making music; it's about nurturing a richer, more inclusive musical landscape.

Your support and enthusiasm have been crucial in shaping Mirabilis Collective's journey. It's your participation that elevates us beyond a musical ensemble to a vibrant, community-driven initiative.

We're truly thankful for your presence in our remarkable 2023. As we enter 2024, we're filled with excitement for the new milestones, partnerships, and moments of inspiration that lie ahead. Thank you for being an essential part of our story. Together, let's step into the new year ready for the wonderful experiences it will bring.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at OUR 2024 Season

This month, I’m thrilled to dive into the creative process behind programming our 2024 concert series. Artistic programming is the perfect opportunity to devote time to one of my favourite activities—discovering repertoire to learn and perform.

When Tresna and I established Mirabilis Collective, we had clear ideas about how we wanted to connect with our audiences at our concerts. Our approach is distinctive—each concert is a 60-minute, narrative-driven experience featuring music exclusively composed by women, performed by an ensemble of women from different generations. Each performance is packed with an eclectic mix of styles and genres that range from medieval and baroque to 19th-century impressionism, and even sambas, folk-rock, and dance-pop.

It hit me the other day—this past year, we've brought to life pieces from 31 astonishing women composers hailing from 14 countries. These women have enriched our musical understanding, allowing us to share with our audiences their cultural and musical styles and their unique compositional voices.

Our 2024 season is set to build on this momentum. As Artistic Director, I treasure taking time to unearth and select these pieces. It's rewarding scouring through historical archives, streaming playlists, and fascinating, lesser-known corners of the musical world. Here, I’d like to give a huge shout-out to the Australian Music Centre— they're an absolute gold mine for music written, published, and recorded by Australian composers. For me it’s more than finding music; it’s about uncovering those pieces that have something to say, that tug at the heartstrings or make your spirit soar.

The selection process for 2024 has been terrifically rewarding, beginning with a wide range of works, then refining our choices to align with our Season ’24 theme and the Mirabilis concert format. Each piece, concise yet impactful, is carefully chosen to stand on its own while connecting to the overall theme of the concert. Achieving this balance is essential—our aim is to create programs that simultaneously celebrate the diversity of women’s music and resonate with our audience on a personal level.

I believe what makes our concerts special is the narrative thread we weave through the music. For the 2024 series, we are focusing on themes that are both timeless and timely, reflecting the shared human experience through the lens of women composers and songwriters. This narrative approach elevates the concert from a series of performances to a cohesive story, with each piece acting as a chapter, contributing to an overarching message.

Collaboration is the heartbeat of our programming process. Currently, Julia Nicholls and I are arranging the music for our ensemble. Julia’s role is pivotal, reimagining pieces to highlight our ensemble's unique strengths and sounds. This year, we’re excited about blending different musical elements—we’ve particularly enjoyed presenting Taylor Swift’s song Begin Again as an instrumental piece infused with Baroque flourishes. (Tresna’s brother Mark said it was one of his favourite Mirabilis Collective moments!) These creative arrangements challenge us musically and provide our audience with a new perspective on familiar songs.

As we finalise the music and gear up for the upcoming season launch, I’m filled with anticipation and excitement. Our concerts are more than a platform for women’s compositions; they are a celebration of the rich, diverse, and often unspoken stories of women in music. Our aspiration for 2024 goes beyond entertainment; we aim to inspire, to forge connections, and to leave our audience with a sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the remarkable musical contributions of these extraordinary women.

Our sincere gratitude to these 31 women for creating the music which has been a cornerstone of Mirabilis Collective's 2023 performances: Barbara Strozzi, Emilie Mayer, Anna Bon, Nadia Boulanger, Regina Spektor, Cécile Chaminade, Hildegard von Bingen, Julia Nicholls, Joni Mitchell, Emily Wurramara, k.d.lang, Emily Saliers, Clara Schumann, Madi Colville-Walker, Emily Lau, Ingrid Stolzel, Kate Bush, Miriam Makeba, Katie Noonan, Emília Duque Estrada de Farias, Carmel Dean, Lili Boulanger, Rina Sawayama, Emily Doolittle, Elena Kats-Chernin, Taylor Swift, Loreena McKennitt, Valerie Coleman, Pauline Viardot-Garcia, Alyssa Morris, and Emily Gelineau (our 2023 International Women’s Day commission).

And now, we warmly invite you to join us on Monday, 11 December, at our concert The Ties That Bind, where we will reveal the 2024 Mirabilis Collective concert season. We can’t wait to share these new experiences with you! 

On Stage Evolution: How Live Performance Shapes Young Musicians

As a performing artist, I am continuously reminded of the irreplaceable magic of live music. There is nothing quite like the experience of seeing musicians pour their hearts and souls into their craft on stage, forging visceral connections with audiences. This month, I want to delve deeper into why live performance is so vital for young musicians’ artistic and career development, particularly for young women breaking into the industry.

Beyond improving technical skills, live shows provide invaluable real-world stage experience. Under the lights, musicians must deliver flawless performances on the first take, adapting in the moment to any hiccups. Regularly testing your abilities on stage accelerates growth exponentially. Gigging builds stamina, focus, and confidence—imperative for captivating audiences. With no studio editing to hide behind, artists develop an authentic stage presence.

Additionally, live concerts are a masterclass in non-verbal communication. Musicians must establish rapport with crowds through their musicality, body language, and eye contact. Reading the room on the fly teaches you to hold attention and modulate energy. Audiences can sense engagement and confidence, or lack thereof. Honing these intangible skills early in your career is absolutely key.

Nothing replicates the exhilaration of feeding off the audience’s energy. Their presence heightens the emotional stakes, pushing performances to the next level. That palpable electricity sparking between artist and crowd when the music deeply connects forms the essence of live show magic.

For young women, visibility gained from live performances also provides crucial early career opportunities. Getting your music heard by industry gatekeepers gives a platform to display your talents. Once people are aware of what you can do, more doors open.

On a human level, live shows build community and resonate deeply. Music unites audiences for shared, often moving experiences that foster human connection. Live performances remind us of our common humanity. The memories made together, whether as audience members or musicians, can last a lifetime.

Here at Mirabilis Collective, we are dedicated to providing young female musicians with pathways into live performance, from skills workshops to concert opportunities. We believe hands-on developing real-world performance skills truly empowers the next generation of women in music.

Experience the thrill of live music for yourself at our upcoming concert The Ties That Bind on Monday 11 December at 7:30pm in the beautiful acoustics of Wesley Church in Perth’s CBD. Immerse yourself in the remarkable talents of our emerging ensemble. Join us to experience firsthand the incredible growth that happens when young artists perform live.

Tickets: bit.ly/MirabilisCollectiveTickets

A Two-Way Street: The Shared Journey of Mental Well-being

Today, I want to pause from the usual discussions about art and music to focus on a topic of vital importance—our mental well-being. Over the years of performing, coaching, and collaborating, I've seen how crucial it is for us as artists to be attuned not just to our craft but also to our emotional and psychological state.

The Weight of Silence: The Invisible Burden and Why We Don’t Seek Help

In the highly competitive and often stressful realm of performing arts, the stigma surrounding mental health is magnified. Many performers wear a mask, a veneer of composure that hides their internal struggles. The fear of appearing weak or needy often acts as a barricade, discouraging many from seeking help. This silence grows heavy, creating an unhealthy environment where emotional distress not only goes unacknowledged but also becomes normalised.

How to Take the First Step: From Personal Experience

Recognising you need help is the inaugural step in a healing journey. For performers who spend so much time in the spotlight, stepping into the vulnerability of admitting a struggle can be frightening yet liberating. Speaking from experience, the act of opening up can itself be therapeutic. Depending on your comfort zone, this could mean talking to a close friend, a family member, or even a healthcare professional. Either way, initiating that conversation is the first hurdle crossed in the longer race towards mental well-being.

The Role of a Listener: How Support Makes a Difference

Listening is an often-underestimated skill that can profoundly impact someone's life. In the context of mental health, being a compassionate and empathetic listener can be transformative. Your support can provide an emotional anchor for someone who feels adrift, potentially turning a life around. The emotional relief that comes from being heard and understood cannot be overstated, and it often serves as the first vital step toward seeking more structured help.

The Importance of Community

Here at Mirabilis Collective, our mission extends beyond the development of musical talents. We believe that a strong, supportive community is essential for the well-being of each individual member. A supportive environment fosters not just artistic growth but also personal and emotional growth, giving everyone the opportunity to lead a balanced life.

The Journey of Self-Care: More Than a Catchphrase

In the buzzword-filled world of wellness, 'self-care' has almost become a cliché. But its importance is timeless and universal—taking care of your mental health doesn't end the moment you speak up or seek help. It's an ongoing process that requires deliberate effort. Songwriter and female artist Alicia Keys captured it succinctly: "Self-care is not something you do once and then you're done. It's a continuous journey of learning and growing."

For many, self-care starts with setting boundaries. It’s okay to say no, it's okay to take a break, it's okay to not be perfect all the time. And it’s vital to learn that each of us are enough. Understanding your limits is the first step to not only preserving but also nourishing your emotional and mental well-being.

Self-care techniques can include anything from physical exercises like yoga and meditation, to engaging in activities that give you joy, or simply allowing yourself a moment to breathe. Every individual's journey in self-care is unique, but the goal remains the same: to create a balanced life where mental well-being is valued and maintained.

Final Thoughts: Empathy and Action

As performers, mentors, students, and above all, as human beings, we each have a role to play in the broader dialogue about mental health. The struggle is collective, and so should be the solution. Let’s extend our support, break the barriers of silence, and make mental health a topic as openly discussed as any other in our community.

Take The Step Toward a Healthier You and a Compassionate Community

Let's shatter the weight of silence together. If you're carrying an invisible burden, consider speaking to someone you trust or seek professional help. If you're concerned about a friend, family member, or colleague, reach out and extend your support.

If you're seeking further information or resources on mental well-being, here are some valuable platforms that can assist you:

Sane Australia: sane.org

Beyond Blue: beyondblue.org.au

Head to Health: headtohealth.gov.au

LGBTIQ+ Health Australia: lgbtiqhealth.org.au

Take the first step, be it small or big, in your journey toward mental well-being. Let's foster a world rich not just in art but also in empathy. You're not alone.

From Commissioning to Performance: A Glimpse into Mirabilis Collective's Musical Process

Embracing Musical Diversity

At Mirabilis Collective, diversity isn't just a word; it's our musical philosophy. From classical to contemporary, from folk to world music, we explore genres and styles that resonate with our mission. It's an exciting journey that uncovers hidden gems and brings fresh perspectives to our repertoire.

Commissioning New Works

One of the important aspects of our ensemble is our commitment to commissioning music by West Australian women composers and songwriters. It's more than a project; it's a passion. It's about supporting creativity, fostering talent, and giving a platform to voices that might otherwise go unheard.

The Thrill of a New Score

Opening a new score for the first time is a thrill, like turning the first page of a book you know you'll love. This was precisely the feeling when we opened Emily Gelineau's new work, "Her Time." It was a connection, an anticipation of the music yet to be explored and shared. The notes on the page were not just symbols; they were an invitation to a musical journey.

Creating Arrangements and the Joy of Collaboration

Creating arrangements is part of our process, a collaboration that involves understanding, translating, and adapting music for our ensemble. It's a challenge, but one that brings satisfaction and enhances our connection to the music.

For Concert One of our series Her Voice Resounds, we gave our arranger, Julia Nicholls, the challenge to arrange three pieces of contemporary music by Indigo Girls, Emily Wurramara and Kate Bush for chamber ensemble. Julia has beautifully captured the essence of these songs—and we all share in the satisfaction of performing something truly special.

Sharing Our Discoveries

Our work comes together on stage, where discoveries, commissions, and arrangements find their place. The audience connects with the music, and we, in turn, connect with them, sharing not only the notes but the stories behind them. It's a reminder of why we do what we do.

Join Us

We invite you to join us on this journey. Come to our concerts, listen to the music we've discovered and arranged, and share in the joy of creation and performance. Because at the end of the day, that's what Mirabilis Collective is all about: discovering, creating, and sharing music that resonates with all of us.