The Song Company has announced that it is adopting a new artistic and business model following a strategic review. Antony Pitts, who has been Artistic Director for seven years, will step aside to be replaced by a newly formed Artistic Advisory Committee, chaired by composer and educator Paul Stanhope. For its 2023 season, a series of guest directors will be engaged.

Antony Pitts and The Song Company. Photo © Christopher Hayles

Established in 1984, The Song Company is a national vocal ensemble. British-born Pitts moved to Australia in 2016 to become its fourth Artistic Director. During his tenure, he has made a significant impact on the work of the Company, programming over 70 concerts, albums and films and leading it through challenging times.

In a media release announcing the change in structure, the Board, staff and vocal artists thanked Pitts for his contribution, and nominated as highlights of his artistic directorship: “groundbreaking performances of early vocal music from Hildegard of Bingen to Dieterich Buxtehude, premieres of contemporary music from Ross Edwards to Brett Dean to Gavin Bryars’ Jesus’ Blood Never Failed Me Yet, close collaborations with...