This episode marks a departure from our usual format as we delve into an initiative close to my heart: RESONATE, a programme I've developed with the Australian Youth Orchestra through my consultancy. Rather than interviewing established cultural leaders, we're hearing directly from the next generation of classical musicians who are actively reshaping the industry from within.

In this participant-led conversation, violist and composer Sophia Mackson, harpist and composer Paul Nicolaou, and French horn player Milly McAuliffe engage in a candid discussion about neurodivergence in orchestral music. Facilitated by Julia Hill, these four young musicians don't just theorise about inclusion - they're living it, advocating for it, and creating new models for how classical music can embrace neurodivergent artists and audiences.

What You'll Hear

The conversation moves seamlessly between personal experiences and practical solutions, covering:

• Understanding neurodivergence - Moving beyond stereotypes to recognise the full spectrum of ADHD, autism, and other conditions, and how they manifest differently in each individual
• Executive dysfunction in practice - How time blindness, motivation challenges, and decision-making difficulties affect everything from daily practice routines to orchestral rehearsals
• Navigating orchestral etiquette - The unspoken rules that can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent musicians, from section hierarchy to break room dynamics
• Transformative teaching approaches - How supportive educators like Patricia Pollet and Alice Giles create inclusive learning environments by adapting to individual needs rather than enforcing rigid methods
• Innovative performance design - Paul's groundbreaking "Elemental Resonance" concert, which used sensory elements to create accessible experiences for neurodivergent, elderly, and young audiences
• Institutional culture change - Why policies aren't enough when workplace culture remains exclusionary, and how freelance networking disadvantages neurodivergent musicians
• The diagnosis journey - Honest accounts of seeking assessment, facing dismissive healthcare providers, and the validation that comes with understanding oneself
• Workplace accommodations - From access riders to adequate break times, practical strategies that benefit all musicians whilst supporting specific needs

Key Insights

"I think accessibility and accommodations should be the baseline... should be a fundamental in rehearsals, but also just talking to people." - Sophia Mackson

"The effort that organisations are putting in isn't for this one tiny group, it's for everyone, which includes this tiny group." - Paul Nicolaou

"Just assume that there is someone in your ensemble that is neurodivergent. We know the statistics mean that's incredibly likely, if not certain." - Milly McAuliffe

"Your experiences are valid and they're real... you know yourself better than anyone else." - Paul Nicolaou

Why This Matters

This conversation represents a generational shift in classical music. These musicians aren't waiting for permission to create change - they're com

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

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Simon Hinton has been Artistic Director and CEO of Merrigong Theatre Company in Wollongong since 2005. Under his leadership, Merrigong has grown from a presenting venue into Australia’s largest regional producing theatre company. With a deep commitment to community, First Nations engagement, and supporting independent artists, Simon has become one of the country’s most respected regional arts leaders.

In this episode, Simon reflects on two decades of cultural leadership and what it takes to sustain a regional company that balances commercial realities with artistic ambition. The conversation explores his philosophy of governance, his advocacy for ethical and values-based leadership, and the ways in which Merrigong’s programs—especially MERRIGONGX—nurture and empower independent artists.

We also discuss how regional contexts can keep organisations grounded, why long-term community embeddedness matters, and how arts organisations must respond to challenges such as post-COVID recovery, sustainability, and the disruptive potential of AI. Simon shares candid insights into the importance of holding space for ambiguity and resisting the polarisation of public discourse, positioning culture as a rare arena where diverse perspectives can meet.

Key Discussion Points

• Simon’s 20-year journey leading Merrigong Theatre Company
  
  
  
• Building a producing company in a regional context
  
  
  
• Rethinking governance and the need for moral leadership in the arts
  
  
  
• Embedding First Nations voices and self-determined programming
  
  
  
• The development and impact of the MERRIGONGX artist program
  
  
  
• Balancing community use, commercial viability, and artistic innovation
  
  
  
• Post-COVID reflections on how the sector values artists
  
  
  
• The challenges of sustainability, cultural ecology, and sector competition
  
  
  
• AI, polarisation, and the responsibility of the arts to hold space for ambiguity
  
  
  

Memorable Quotes

• “It’s not really measured in years. It’s measured in decades… this is a deep tilling of the earth and a planting of seeds to change the cultural landscape.”
  
  
  
• “We need to work at the speed of trust.”
  
  
  
• “Maybe we’ll be the last people that hold some space for silence and contemplation, where differing views can coexist.”
  
  
  

Links

• Merrigong Theatre Company
  
  
  
• MERRIGONGX
  
  
  
• BlakDance
  
  
  
• NORPA
  
  
  
• Create NSW
  
  
  

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

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Due to recent events at Bendigo Writers Festival, we felt it timely to release this episode, recorded earlier this year.

Sam reconnects with Rosemarie Milsom, founding director of Newcastle Writers Festival, whose crisis management approach offers a masterclass in ethical cultural leadership. With journalism experience and current role as Walkley Book Award panel chair, Rosemarie navigated unprecedented challenges whilst maintaining commitment to diverse voices.

Crisis Leadership

Following October 7, 2023, Rosemarie faced escalating tensions with programmed writers holding opposing Israel-Palestine views. The situation required police intervention, including tactical response teams.

Her approach emphasised stakeholder engagement over public statements - tailored communication strategies and proactive consultation months before controversy emerged. Despite intense social media campaigns and direct threats, she maintained the festival's commitment to all invited writers without losing a single artist.

Cultural Leadership Insights

Rosemarie contrasts her approach with recent institutional retreats, arguing many leaders abandon missions due to fear. Her perspective proves powerful given her background as a Bosnian Muslim who lost family to genocide, yet demonstrates separating personal feelings from professional responsibilities.

The festival operates without major donors, building grassroots support whilst maintaining ethical positions like refusing coal industry funding.

Key Quotes

"If you start removing artists from what you do, it's a really slippery slope."

"When you're in a leadership position, if you let fear govern your existence, then I think you probably shouldn't be in a leadership position."

Links

Newcastle Writers Festival: https://www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/

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Presenter and research: Dr Samuel Cairnduff

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

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This week's conversation features Seb Chan, Director and CEO of ACMI and National President of the Australian Museums and Galleries Association, exploring his innovative approach to cultural leadership and institutional transformation.

Seb shares insights from his journey from experimental music and club culture to pioneering digital transformation at major cultural institutions. He discusses how museums and cultural spaces can rebuild trust and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

Key discussion points include:

• Evolving role of cultural institutions in building community trust
• Digital transformation and preservation challenges
• Designing accessible cultural spaces that reduce threshold fear
• Focus and attention in the age of social media
• Cultural translation and community engagement
• Future integration of cultural spaces with community infrastructure
• The garden metaphor for sustainable digital development
• Leadership versus management in cultural institutions
• Building intergenerational connections through cultural experiences
• The role of institutions in addressing major societal challenges

Throughout the conversation, Seb emphasises the importance of creating spaces for meaningful community interaction and the need for cultural institutions to actively shape conversations about our shared future.

Links:

• ACMI
• Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA)
• RMIT University

About Seb Chan: Seb Chan is the Director and CEO of ACMI and National President of AMAGA. His career spans pioneering roles in digital transformation at the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum in New York and the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. He is recognised internationally for his innovative approach to museum engagement and cultural leadership.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Seb Chan

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

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This week's conversation features Michelle Leonard OAM, founder and artistic director of Moorambilla Voices, discussing her transformative work bringing high-quality music education to regional communities and her unique approach to cultural leadership built on deep connection to country and community.

Michelle shares insights from her journey from regional NSW to becoming one of Australia's most influential voices in community-engaged musical practice, and discusses how authentic artistic experiences can transform lives and communities.

Key discussion points include:

• Building sustainable arts programs in regional communities
• The role of music in developing resilience and connection
• Creating genuine engagement with First Nations communities and culture
• The importance of long-term commitment in cultural leadership
• Developing artistic excellence through community engagement
• The transformative power of collective musical experiences
• Cultural leadership as a force for social cohesion
• Building sustainable arts organizations in regional settings
• The need for authenticity in arts leadership
• Mentoring the next generation of cultural leaders

Throughout the conversation, Michelle emphasizes the importance of creating genuine connections through artistic practice and the need for cultural leaders to work with tenacity and deep respect for community and country.

Links:

• Moorambilla Voices
• Michelle Leonard's TED Talk "How can music change a child's life?"
• The Shape of Sand (Performance video)
• The Shape of Water (Performance video)

About Michelle Leonard: Michelle Leonard OAM is the founder and artistic director of Moorambilla Voices, established in 2006. Her innovative work bringing high-quality music education to regional NSW has been recognized internationally. She received an Order of Australia Medal for her service to the performing arts through music. Her work has been particularly notable for deep engagement with First Nations communities and artists, creating genuine cultural connections through music. Her TED Talk "How can music change a child's life?" has brought international attention to the transformative impact of music in regional communities. Through Moorambilla Voices, she has worked with thousands of children across regional NSW, creating an internationally recognised program that combines artistic excellence with authentic community engagement.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Michelle Leonard OAM

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

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This week's conversation features Joel Carnegie, award-winning storyteller, broadcaster and musician, discussing his journey creating powerful audio narratives and live performances that deeply connect with communities.

Joel shares insights from his groundbreaking national tour of 'Stardust & The Mission', which combined storytelling, music and community engagement through collaborations with local brass bands across Australia. He reflects on the challenges and opportunities of creating cultural work in a post-COVID landscape.

Key discussion points include:

• The evolution from musician to storyteller and producer
• Building sustainable creative careers through multiple streams
• Deep community engagement through local collaborations
• The impact of digital distraction on cultural consumption
• Rethinking elite musical training institutions
• Creating accessible and inclusive artistic experiences
• The role of story in shaping Australian cultural identity
• Sustainable models for arts funding and creation
• Supporting artists through career challenges
• Digital platforms' impact on cultural production

Throughout the conversation, Joel emphasises the importance of authentic storytelling that connects with place and community. He advocates for more sustainable and inclusive approaches to cultural creation and consumption.

Links:

• ABC Classic
• The Storymakers Institute
• Hell's Gates
• Stardust & The Mission

About Joel Carnegie: Joel Carnegie is an award-winning storyteller, audio producer and musician. His work spans radio, podcasting, theatre and music, with a focus on telling uniquely Australian stories. He currently hosts evenings on ABC Classic and produces The Storymakers Institute podcast.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Joel Carnegie

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

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Culture. Society. Conversations

This week's conversation features Stephen Block, Director of the Tasmanian Chamber Music Festival, discussing his remarkable journey in arts leadership from the early days of the Australian String Quartet through to his current role.

Stephen shares fascinating insights from his formative years in Adelaide during the Dunstan era, and his pivotal role in establishing the Australian String Quartet as a national chamber music ensemble. He discusses the evolution of arts funding and audience development in Australia through his various leadership roles.

Key discussion points include:

• The cultural impact of the Dunstan era in South Australia
• Establishing the Australian String Quartet
• Building national touring networks
• Developing corporate partnerships and philanthropy
• The role of chamber music in contemporary society
• Programming for heritage venues
• Festival development and audience engagement
• The importance of architectural heritage in concert presentation
• Building sustainable arts organisations
• The evolution of arts leadership in Australia

Throughout the conversation, Stephen emphasises the importance of creating memorable aesthetic experiences and building lasting relationships with audiences and supporters.

Links:

• Tasmanian Chamber Music Festival
• Van Diemen's Band
• Australian String Quartet

About Stephen Block: Stephen Block is the Director of the Tasmanian Chamber Music Festival. His career spans major roles including CEO of the Australian String Quartet and General Manager of Melbourne Chamber Orchestra. He has made significant contributions to chamber music in Australia through various leadership positions.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Stephen Block

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

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This week's conversation features Timothy Walker CBE AM, former Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, discussing his remarkable journey from Tasmania to leading one of the world's great orchestras.

Tim shares insights from his extensive career in arts leadership, including transforming the Australian Chamber Orchestra into a full-time ensemble, founding World Orchestras, and his 17-year tenure leading the London Philharmonic Orchestra from 2002 to 2020.

Key discussion points include:

• Building sustainable arts organisations
• The unique player-owned orchestra model
• Balancing artistic excellence with commercial viability
• Orchestra governance and board dynamics
• Programming for diverse audiences
• Cultural leadership versus management
• Australian orchestras' relationship with society
• Supporting young musicians through education
• Social responsibility in arts organisations
• The impact of COVID-19 on orchestral performance

Throughout the conversation, Tim emphasises the importance of effective management and clear artistic vision in leading major cultural institutions. He advocates for orchestras to focus on their core mission while remaining responsive to community needs.

Links:

• London Philharmonic Orchestra
• Australian Chamber Orchestra

About Timothy Walker: Timothy Walker CBE AM was Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the London Philharmonic Orchestra from 2002 to 2020. His career spans major leadership roles in Australian and international arts organisations. In 2020, he was awarded Commander of the British Empire (CBE) for services to arts and music.

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Timothy Walker CBE AM

Connect with Decoding Cultural Leadership on social media

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Read Sam's Substack here.

Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

Decoding Cultural Leadership |
Culture. Society. Conversations