The University of Melbourne Conservatorium of Music has begun an exclusive, five-year partnership with the Australian World Orchestra, allowing students to observe rehearsals and gain an insight into the workings of a professional ensemble. Along with Conservatorium staff, the students will also engage in collaborative music-making with AWO musicians.

Australian World Orchestra. Photo © Anna Kucera

The AWO’s Chief Conductor and Artistic Director Alexander Briger said, “It’s such a privilege to bring exceptional Australian musicians together, to celebrate the joy of making music and to connect with audiences at home and abroad. This partnership with the University of Melbourne adds yet another dimension – the pleasure of sharing knowledge, experience, and above all, music, with the next generation of Australian talent.”

It has been made possible by a generous gift from barrister and philanthropist Allan Myers AC QC, who was appointed the University’s 22nd Chancellor in 2017. He will step down at the end of the year after two consecutive terms, during which the university raised more than $1 billion in philanthropic support. Myers was the founding Chair of the Grattan Institute, and he is currently the Governor of the Ian...