CHANGE YOUR TUNE

Susan Eldridge
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Incredible conversations with classical musicians about feelings (YES!), finding their value and career transitions. Meet professional classical musicians now thriving as entrepreneurs, master craftsmen, counsellors, personal trainers, software developers, lawyers and more. We need to NORMALISE the reality of underemployment, unemployment, career pivots and exits for classical musicians. Are you with me? Think classical musicians only make music? Think again. #changeyourtune

  1. Peter Kilpatrick

    05/04/2025

    Peter Kilpatrick

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY I acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Eastern Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded. I pay my respects to their Elders past and present, and I recognise their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture. Sovereignty was never ceded—this always was and always will be Aboriginal land. ABOUT PETER Peter Kilpatrick, Director of Audience and Experience at Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra since April 2023, has a rich background in arts administration and marketing, with roles at Tourism Tasmania, Opera Australia, and Australian Youth Orchestra. He holds qualifications in music, marketing, and public policy, and has served on various arts organisation boards. ABOUT THIS EPISODE Can you imagine transforming burnout into a vibrant career reinvention? Join us as we unravel the inspiring journey of Peter Kilpatrick, Director of Audience and Experience at the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. From his early days as a classical musician to his roles with Opera Australia and the Australian Youth Orchestra, Peter's story is one of resilience and adaptability. After facing the challenges of burnout, Peter made the intriguing move into remedial massage therapy, only to find his way back into the arts via communications and marketing, ultimately shaping the brand identity of Tasmania. His experience offers a masterclass in turning life's detours into meaningful opportunities. Peter's journey isn't just about career pivots; it's also a deep dive into personal growth and leadership. Discover how a transformative leadership program inspired by Brené Brown reshaped his understanding of vulnerability, communication, and self-awareness. We delve into the importance of equipping young musicians with the skills necessary to navigate the competitive music industry, nurturing their potential for sustainable success. Peter shares insights into the power of reflective practice and the role of self-responsibility in fostering professional and personal growth. Explore the cultural impact of music beyond the stage, as Peter discusses his transition from massage therapy to marketing, and his contributions to Brand Tasmania. Learn how the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra connects with diverse audiences and enriches community life, moving beyond traditional performances. Peter's passion for music and his enduring involvement with the Glenorchy City Concert Brass band highlight the profound impact music has had on his life's journey, celebrating his 35-year friendship and connections within the music sector. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that intertwines personal transformation with the vibrant cultural tapestry of Tasmania. LINKS Find Peter on LinkedIN   PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly  RECORDED Recorded on 10 January 2025

    44 min
  2. David Khafagi

    04/27/2025

    David Khafagi

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY This episode was recorded in Tāmaki Makaurau. I acknowledge the mana whenua of Tāmaki Makaurau, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and all iwi of this region. I honour the Indigenous people, their land, waters, and traditions. I also acknowledge their ancestors, the guardians of the past, and their present leaders. ABOUT DAVID David is Principal Trumpet with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, and has also performed with the Tasmanian, Queensland and Melbourne Symphony Orchestras. He studied trumpet at the Queensland and Elder Conservatories, and also privately with Yoram Levy in Tasmania and Hannes Laeubin in Munich. Before earning a full-time position in the ASO, David enjoyed a12-year career in Orchestral Management and Production. David is married to ASO violinist, Janet Anderson, with whom he has two children, Ella and Billy. ABOUT THIS EPISODE David’s story takes a different path from many of our previous guests—rather than stepping away from performing, his journey is one of rising through the ranks within the orchestral world. We dive into his experiences with auditions and trials, exploring how years of working with the orchestra in various roles prepared him for this career-defining moment. David reflects on what it means to join an orchestra where he already felt at home, balancing the comfort of familiarity with the intense pressure of auditions. Our conversation unpacks the emotional weight of auditions and the value of honest, constructive feedback. We explore how musicians navigate intense scrutiny, learning to address critiques while holding onto their strengths. David shares the mix of relief and elation that came with finally securing his position after multiple attempts, underscoring the role of self-belief and internal readiness in meeting artistic expectations. Beyond performance, we also explore the less conventional career pathways in music—how stepping into operational roles within an orchestra can provide a fresh perspective. With experience on both sides, David challenges traditional boundaries between musicianship and administration, offering insights into the reality of balancing personal and professional life, particularly when both partners are musicians. Finally, we highlight the often unseen contributions of orchestra administrators, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, gratitude, and community in sustaining a thriving musical career. David’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the many ways musicians shape the orchestral world.   PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly  RECORDED Recorded on 06 December 2024

    47 min
  3. Jessica Wilkins

    04/20/2025

    Jessica Wilkins

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY I acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Eastern Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded. I pay my respects to their Elders past and present, and I recognise their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture. Sovereignty was never ceded—this always was and always will be Aboriginal land. ABOUT JESSICA "I am an oboist turned software developer. When I was a musician, I founded and ran JDW Sheet Music and performed all throughout Southern California. As a developer, I create well maintained solutions that address business challenges. My hobbies include reading, and practicing oboe for fun." ABOUT THIS EPISODE Jessica Wilkins, a musician turned tech enthusiast, joins us to share her fascinating journey from concert halls to coding. With a rich background from the Eastman School of Music and the University of Michigan, Jessica’s career in music was as vibrant as it was entrepreneurial. She ran a successful publishing company in Los Angeles, blending creativity, ambition, and adaptability in ways you wouldn’t expect. But then, something shifted. Her drive to advocate for Black artists in classical and jazz music sparked an unexpected pivot to tech. After building the Black Excellence Music Project website, Jessica discovered a passion for coding that led her to dive deep into online learning platforms. Faced with the choice between a high-profile gig at Disney or plunging into the tech world, she chose the latter—and hasn’t looked back. In this episode, Jessica reveals how her self-taught coding journey opened doors in software development. She shares why building real-world projects is key to showcasing your skills and how her transition from freelance musician to full-time tech role taught her the value of navigating team dynamics and setting healthy workplace boundaries. Stepping away from music also gave her space to cultivate personal growth and compassion, which has enriched both her professional life and her creative collaborations. LINKS Find Jessica on LinkedIN blackexcellencemusicproject.com   PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly  RECORDED Recorded on 13 January 2025

    43 min
  4. Marielle Allen

    04/13/2025

    Marielle Allen

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY I acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Eastern Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded. I pay my respects to their Elders past and present, and I recognise their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture. Sovereignty was never ceded—this always was and always will be Aboriginal land. ABOUT MARIELLE Marielle is an experienced strategist, having consulted for more than five years across the private and public sectors in a range of domains from transport to energy. Marielle began her consulting career at Strategy& (formerly Booz & Co) and now works as a commercial advisor at boutique outfit Coughlin Advisory. ABOUT THIS EPISODE Marielle shares her fascinating journey from the musical stages of the Queensland Conservatorium to navigating complex deals that promote renewable energy in New South Wales. We explore how the collaborative and structured environment of music parallels her current role, where teamwork, strategic planning, and a supportive culture are crucial. Her story offers a unique perspective on balancing macro and micro views in business and music, making for a compelling narrative on the value of diverse experiences. Listen in as we discuss the emotional and psychological challenges faced by musicians and how these translate into the corporate world. We examine the rigid nature of classical music training and its impact on risk tolerance and emotional skills. Marielle shares insights into the valuable skills musicians bring to the table, like receiving feedback dispassionately, while also highlighting the need for emotional intelligence in professional environments. This conversation underscores the importance of holistic development, blending technical proficiency with emotional resilience for effective collaboration. Finally, we explore the courage required to transition between careers, likening the process to mastering a musical instrument. Marielle shares her experiences of embracing the unknown and finding freedom in exploring new career paths. We reflect on the intersection of leadership and creativity, emphasizing the importance of technical skills and self-assurance. Through Marielle's story, we learn about the power of self-determination and fulfillment, and the lessons learned during the pandemic about focusing on actionable steps. PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly  RECORDED Recorded on 13 January 2025

    46 min
  5. Katharine Tier

    04/06/2025

    Katharine Tier

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY I acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Eastern Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded. I pay my respects to their Elders past and present, and I recognise their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture. Sovereignty was never ceded—this always was and always will be Aboriginal land. ABOUT KATHARINE Until 2020, Kate was an international opera singer, and during her travels was exposed to varieties of vegetables that were brand-new to her. She became passionate about wanting to bring not only variety to the Australian table but also the quality and nutrient density that becomes possible with a shift towards local production and regenerative agricultural practices. Covid made Kate realise the importance of food security has never been more evident and she decided that she wanted to contribute to Australia’s ability to achieve it. ABOUT THIS EPISODE What happens when an opera singer trades the spotlight for soil, building a life centered around sustainability and self-sufficiency? Katharine Tier, a talented musician and business owner, shares her compelling journey from a high-profile opera career in Europe back to her roots in Tasmania, Australia. Faced with the challenges of establishing a regenerative farm during the COVID-19 pandemic, she and her husband Florian navigated the unpredictable world of sustainable farming and business ownership. From initial ventures into veggie boxes to thriving with their seed company, Seed Freaks, Katharine opens up about adapting to new environments and finding resilience through community support and personal growth. But the journey wasn't without its hurdles. Katharine reveals the intricacies of maintaining seed purity amidst an ecosystem of possums, wallabies, and coastal winds. Her candid insights into these experiences offer a glimpse into the relentless yet rewarding path of sustainable farming. Beyond agriculture, Katharine reflects on overcoming personal struggles, including an eating disorder, and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability as a source of strength. This episode delves into her evolution from performer to farmer, highlighting transferable skills and the significance of collaboration in building a more sustainable, ethical lifestyle. Katharine's passion for music and education remains a vibrant part of her story, as she recounts memorable musical projects like performing Mahler's Symphony No. 2 in Tasmania. Balancing her artistic pursuits with postgraduate studies in counseling, she shares her dedication to ethical artistry and the importance of addressing societal challenges, such as mental health and generational issues. Through her experiences, Katharine demonstrates the transformative power of collaboration, respect, and a commitment to future-proofing emotional well-being as cornerstones of a healthier society. Join us for an inspiring narrative that underscores the interconnectedness of art, agriculture, and personal development. IMAGE CREDIT Andrew Finden    LINKS Katharine on Facebook Seed Freaks on Facebook Quintessence on Facebook   @katharinetier on Instagram @seedfreaks on Instagram @quintessence_voices on Instagram   PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly  RECORDED Recorded on 15 January 2025

    43 min
  6. Seb Valentine

    03/30/2025

    Seb Valentine

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY This episode was recorded in Tāmaki Makaurau. I acknowledge the mana whenua of Tāmaki Makaurau, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and all iwi of this region. I honour the Indigenous people, their land, waters, and traditions. I also acknowledge their ancestors, the guardians of the past, and their present leaders. ABOUT SEB Following a childhood dominated by music, Seb left Bristol to study singing at the Royal College of Music, London. After struggling to make it as an opera singer, he joined the police in 2011. He now combines music and policing with his charity, the Blue Light Symphony Orchestra.  ABOUT THIS EPISODE Join me on an inspiring journey as I sit down with Seb Valentine, a police officer in the UK who shares his unique career path from a professional musician to a member of the Surrey Police. Seb offers a fascinating look into his current role as a staff officer for the chief constable, where he gains rare insights into leadership and organizational management. With a background as a detective sergeant specializing in domestic abuse cases, Seb has worn many hats in the policing world. But that's not all—his life is also steeped in music, having studied singing at the Royal College of Music and working as a freelance opera singer before embarking on his law enforcement career. Listen in as we explore how Seb manages to balance these dual passions, drawing leadership lessons from both conducting and policing. Explore Seb's transformative journey from music to law enforcement, sparked by a change of heart during his university years. Originally set to pursue physics, Seb embraced his musical passion, which eventually led him to the Royal College of Music. While the life of a baritone was rewarding, the unpredictable nature of freelance work pushed Seb toward volunteering as a police officer. This role satisfied his childhood fascination with emergency services and allowed him to make a meaningful impact in his community. In our conversation, Seb reflects on how these experiences have shaped his approach to both music and policing, finding fulfillment in bridging these two worlds. Finally, discover how Seb's musical talents have found a new purpose in the emergency services. Seb recounts his journey from organizing local choirs to founding an orchestra for police personnel, designed to accommodate their demanding schedules. Through this unique ensemble, Seb has been able to foster a community that combines the structured interaction of music with the high-stakes environment of emergency services. The parallels between conducting and police leadership are explored, emphasizing the strategic direction and attention management required in both fields. Seb also shares the therapeutic potential of music, spotlighting a charity initiative that leverages music as a healing tool for those in emergency services. Don't miss this episode filled with inspiring stories and valuable insights into the power of music and leadership. LINKS Find Seb on LinkedIN PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly    RECORDED Recorded on 29 November 2024

    52 min
  7. Jonas Anderson

    03/23/2025

    Jonas Anderson

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY This episode was recorded in Tāmaki Makaurau. I acknowledge the mana whenua of Tāmaki Makaurau, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and all iwi of this region. I honour the Indigenous people, their land, waters, and traditions. I also acknowledge their ancestors, the guardians of the past, and their present leaders. ABOUT JONAS Jonas spent a decade supporting orchestras, ballet, and theatre in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand as a stage and production manager. He is now a peer worker for autistic youth, occasionally consults on disability access, and is completing a Masters of Speech Pathology. ABOUT THIS EPISODE Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jonas Anderson as we explore his remarkable career transition from arts administration to pursuing a Master's in Speech Pathology. Jonas shares the motivations behind his mid-career shift, reflecting on his passion for helping others with speech, communication, and swallowing issues. With a background as a stage and production manager, Jonas draws connections between his past experiences with orchestras and opera companies and his current studies, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and quality of life in his new field. Listen in as Jonas recounts the pivotal moments that influenced his career path, including his work with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and his decision to pursue a graduate diploma in human resource management during the COVID-19 pandemic. This journey highlighted the challenges and limitations within arts administration, leading Jonas to recognize the misalignments within the sector and inspiring him to create inclusive opportunities that celebrate all voices. His experiences promoting First Nations artists and supporting self-advocacy have been instrumental in shaping his new focus. Susan joins the discussion to highlight the importance of balancing work, trauma, and personal life. Together, they explore how creativity intersects with healthcare, underscoring the role of empathy and understanding in both fields. The episode concludes with a reflection on the power of positive work culture, emphasizing gratitude and the impact of bringing out the best in colleagues. This engaging dialogue offers valuable insights into career transitions, creativity, and the pursuit of a fulfilling professional life. LINKS Find Jonas on LinkedIN   IMAGE CREDIT (c) Latitude Creative, 2021   PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly    RECORDED Recorded on 11 November 2024

    50 min
  8. Holly Mathieson

    03/16/2025

    Holly Mathieson

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY This episode was recorded in Tāmaki Makaurau. I acknowledge the mana whenua of Tāmaki Makaurau, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and all iwi of this region. I honour the Indigenous people, their land, waters, and traditions. I also acknowledge their ancestors, the guardians of the past, and their present leaders. ABOUT HOLLY Holly Mathieson enjoyed an award-winning career as a conductor, regularly working with opera houses, ballet companies and orchestras in Europe, Australasia and North America, and recording for BBC, CBC and Decca. She recently retrained as a Software Engineer and Web Developer, and now runs Scordatura, a digital company building tools for music, musicians and audiences. ABOUT THIS EPISODE Tech entrepreneur and music director Holly Mathieson reveals how she’s orchestrating a new harmony between classical music leadership and digital innovation. Holly offers an insider's look at her journey from the traditional world of conducting to the dynamic realm of tech, where she’s building platforms to empower classical music enthusiasts. Her innovative approach during the pandemic and her experiences in Canada and the UK illustrate the exciting evolution of music leadership, as she champions shared leadership within orchestras and reimagines the conductor's role. Listeners will gain a unique perspective on the parallels between music and coding as Holly reflects on her transition from ballet to tech. She shares her contemplative journey through the challenges of leaving behind familiar artistic environments and connections, and her curiosity about the vibrant personalities she'll encounter in the tech industry. Holly’s insights offer a compelling look at the personal and professional impacts of anxiety, the relief the pandemic inadvertently provided, and the clarity it brought to her life as she navigated significant transitions with grace and courage. The conversation takes an inspiring turn as Holly discusses the creation of safe spaces for musical expression and leadership development. Her transformative work with the Nevis Ensemble and orchestras in Canada showcases the power of fostering supportive environments and challenging traditional hierarchies. Through candid reflections on vulnerability and reimagining possibilities, Holly not only offers a refreshing perspective on leadership but also highlights the profound personal and collective growth that can emerge within the creative community. LINKS www.instagram.com/scordatura_digital/ www.facebook.com/ScordaturaDigital www.linkedin.com/in/hollymathieson/ www.hollymathieson.com www.scordatura.io   IMAGE CREDIT Martin Stewart   PODCAST TEAM Production Support and Audio Engineering by Thomas Grayden Theme Music Composed by Danna Yun Theme Music Performed by Jasper Ly    RECORDED Recorded on 22 November 2024

    52 min
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About

Incredible conversations with classical musicians about feelings (YES!), finding their value and career transitions. Meet professional classical musicians now thriving as entrepreneurs, master craftsmen, counsellors, personal trainers, software developers, lawyers and more. We need to NORMALISE the reality of underemployment, unemployment, career pivots and exits for classical musicians. Are you with me? Think classical musicians only make music? Think again. #changeyourtune

Information

  • Creator
    Susan Eldridge
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    52
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Change Your Tune
  • Show Website
    CHANGE YOUR TUNE