ANBOC 2026

To bring a new piece of orchestral music to life is very exciting, but how does this happen? And can a school or community orchestra conductor play as important a role in the creation of new Australian repertoire in the same way as do conductors of world leading professional orchestras? The short answer is YES!
It can start as an idea from either the composer or conductor- or both. It is this partnership - although extremely unique - which can create a special composition that can become an invaluable part of the orchestral canon. 
From the first conversation to the commissioning and creation process- and then to the rehearsal period. This kind of collaboration can occur at every level of ensemble from school groups through to professional orchestras. It is a process that fosters a rich musical relationship and can be an unforgettable experience for your ensemble.
This Open Rehearsal with a live orchestra will feature the rehearsal techniques for one of the most recent orchestral works by Dr Catherine Likhuta and trace the journey from its inception to a performance. In the session there will be practical solutions to performance practice in an orchestral setting and how to manage the expectations of the composer within the practicalities and context of the rehearsal and concert. The purpose of this presentation is to offer guidelines on how to bring to life a new Australian work with particular attention to the relationship between composer and conductor.
This process of collaboration not only creates a good musical foundation for the future but, importantly, will help to establish a culture that will champion the cause of Australian composers of today and in years to come.