In Conversation with Nicola Boud
Guest interview by Elena Wittkuhn — Mirabilis Collective cellist and creative contributor.
Historically Informed Performance (H.I.P.) clarinettist Nicola Boud sits down with Elena to explore the beauty of variability in performance, her journey from Perth to Europe, and her work on Musica Viva’s H.I.P. concert.
In Conversation with Jennifer Marten-Smith
Guest interview by Elena Wittkuhn — Mirabilis Collective cellist and creative contributor.
In this thoughtful conversation, Elena Wittkuhn speaks with pianist Jennifer Marten-Smith ahead of her Northern Lights national tour with violinist Johan Dalene for Musica Viva. Jennifer reflects on her early musical upbringing, her multifaceted career as soloist, accompanist, and répétiteur, and her approach to practice and collaboration. The interview also explores the upcoming program, featuring works by Lili Boulanger and Jack Frere, and offers a personal glimpse into the artistry behind this exciting national tour.
Uncovering Connie Converse: A Voice the World Almost Missed
Who was Connie Converse, and why does her music still echo so powerfully today? The delicate threads of her life and legacy are traced through the lens of Howard Fishman’s biography, the aching poetry of One by One, and the silence she left behind. It’s a story of loss, rediscovery, and the fragile brilliance of unheard women’s voices.
Women’s Voices Reshape Classical Music: A Closer Look at the 2025 Grammy Awards
2025’s GRAMMY Awards marked a turning point for women in classical music, celebrating artists who are reshaping the genre and amplifying voices long overlooked. This year’s winners—Gabriela Ortiz, Karen Slack, Michelle Cann, Caroline Shaw, Kaija Saariaho, and Elaine Martone—demonstrated that classical music can honour tradition while embracing innovation and contemporary relevance.
From Ortiz’s Revolución Diamantina, a powerful orchestral work inspired by feminist movements in Mexico, to Slack and Cann’s Beyond the Years, which revives the unpublished songs of Florence Price, these projects highlight how classical music continues to evolve. Caroline Shaw and Sō Percussion redefined chamber music with Rectangles and Circumstance, while the late Kaija Saariaho’s Adriana Mater earned a posthumous GRAMMY, cementing her legacy as a visionary composer. Producer Elaine Martone’s historic win further underscored the impact of women behind the scenes, shaping the sound of today’s classical music landscape.
These awards reflect more than individual success—they signal a shift towards a more inclusive, dynamic, and socially engaged future for classical music. Read the full article to explore how these groundbreaking women are redefining the genre for the 21st century.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Gemma Farrell
Gemma Farrell, a trailblazer in jazz education and performance, reflects on her journey as a saxophonist, educator, and advocate for diversity in music. From founding the Artemis Orchestra to leading the Gemma Farrell Quintet and mentoring young talent at WAYJO, Gemma has dedicated her career to amplifying underrepresented voices in jazz.
In this interview, she shares the pivotal moments and inspiring women who shaped her path, along with empowering advice on balancing a thriving jazz career with family life.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Alice Farnham
This month, we had the pleasure of speaking with Alice Farnham, an inspiring conductor and educator whose career is dedicated to championing women in classical music. Alice shared her thoughts on the overlooked legacy of Imogen Holst, her favourite compositions, and the evolving representation of women in the music industry. From her innovative work with Perth Symphony Orchestra’s Women on the Podium program to her insights on collaboration and mentorship, Alice’s reflections remind us of the power of women supporting one another to drive meaningful change.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Alexandra Dariescu
In this exclusive Sisters in Sync interview, we sit down with acclaimed pianist and advocate for women’s music, Alexandra Dariescu. Known for her innovative performances and commitment to spotlighting underrepresented composers, Alexandra opens up about the empowering moments in her career, her latest musical discoveries, and the values that drive her creative spirit.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Hannah Lee Tungate
Hannah Lee Tungate, creative producer and president of Tenth Muse Initiative, is an incredible advocate for underrepresented voices in classical music. Through award-winning shows and innovative projects like the Women Composers Project, she’s creating new platforms for diverse voices in Perth’s music scene. In September's Sisters in Sync interview, Hannah shares her journey, her passion for inclusion, and her vision for a more vibrant and diverse future in classical music.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Candice Susnjar
In our latest Sisters in Sync interview, we sit down with the talented composer and musician Candice Susnjar. Candice shares her recent discoveries in music by women composers and highlights the powerful impact of mentorship. Dive into the full interview to explore Candice’s journey and her vision for the future of women in music.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Tresna Stampalia
Discover the inspiring journey of flautist Tresna Stampalia in our latest Sisters in Sync 3-2-1 interview. From orchestral performances to cross-cultural collaborations, Tresna shares valuable insights on versatility, innovation, and empowering women in music. Learn about her pivotal career moments and get advice for aspiring musicians. Read how this musical innovator is shaping the future of the industry.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Sally Whitwell
"Finding the right collaborators is absolutely crucial," says Sally Whitwell, an ARIA award-winning composer and pianist. Known for her versatility and innovative contributions to music, Whitwell's recent work, Margaret and the Grey Mare, exemplifies her commitment to interdisciplinary creativity. In our insightful interview, she shares her experiences of collaboration, the transformative power of partnerships, and her vision for the future of classical music.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Sharon Grigoryan
"Just be who you are, and that’s enough."
In this month's Sisters in Sync, we speak with the extraordinary cellist Sharon Grigoryan. A passionate chamber musician, Sharon is known for her outstanding tenure with the Australian String Quartet and her ongoing collaboration with her husband, the acclaimed guitarist Slava Grigoryan. Sharon shares her insights, inspirations, and valuable lessons learned throughout her remarkable career. From her admiration for violinist Wilma Smith to her empowering career moments and advice for aspiring young musicians, Sharon's journey and wisdom are truly inspiring.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Bourby Webster
“The industry is changing, but humans always need art.”
In our insightful 'Sisters in Sync' interview, music powerhouse Bourby Webster explores industry obstacles, the unwavering importance of the arts, and why young women must fearlessly claim their power.
Sisters in Sync: 3-2-1 with Fiona Campbell
"Great music transcends genres." Fiona Campbell OAM's creative vision for Perth Symphony Orchestra is bold and inclusive. In our Sisters in Sync interview, she discusses the importance of diverse programming, the power of female role models, and how her own journey shaped her commitment to fostering the next generation of artists.
