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.