As we celebrate 50 years of WAYO in 2024, we chatted to some of our Alumni to catch up on what they’ve been up to, and their memories from their WA Youth Orchestras experience.
Can you tell us a bit about your career in music?
I grew up in Perth and studied clarinet performance for my Bachelor of Music at WAAPA. During my studies I picked up conducting on the side; putting together my own ensembles/concerts as well as conducting many of the different ensembles in WA.
In 2013 I was appointed the inaugural Assistant Conductor of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and in 2015 moved to Denver Colorado when I won a position of Associate Conductor with the Colorado Symphony.
Today I am heading into my 10th season with Colorado Symphony, now as its Resident Conductor, I’m also Music Director of the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra and am a highly sought-after guest conductor throughout the US on a wide range of programs from classical, film, pops to band collaborations. I have been fortunate enough to collaborate with a wide range of soloists from Renee Fleming and Joshua Bell to contemporary groups like the Wu-Tang Clan, Cypress Hill and The Flaming Lips to name just a few.


What was a highlight of your time in WAYO programs?
I feel like I experienced the full breadth of WAYO – I started as clarinettist back in the WA Youth Symphonic Band, moved my way up to the Philharmonic Orchestra, then the West Australian Youth Orchestra and finally ended up as one of its staff conductors.
I have had so many highlights during my time with WAYO; from playing the clarinet solo in Kodaly’s Hary Janos Suite during my first concert in WAYO, winning the Woodside Concerto Competition allowing me to play as a soloist with the orchestra, to playing under the legendary film composer Ennio Morricone. These are just a handful of the many highlights I experienced during my time with WAYO.
What skills did you take away from your time at WAYO?
WAYO taught me not only how to play and listen in an orchestra but also how an orchestra operates. Sitting in rehearsal watching Peter Moore work with the orchestra; breaking down the music to work on specific sections, shaping the orchestra’s sound and bringing the very best out of the musicians inspired me on my path to be a conductor.
Without a doubt, the support of WAYO and Peter’s mentorship shaped my career to where I am today.


Why do you think WAYO is important to the Australian cultural landscape?
The West Australian Youth Orchestra is one of our country’s most valuable cultural resources and is a beacon to all the other youth orchestras in Australia and abroad. It not only provides the highest artistic standard in music education but also offers truly life changing experiences.
What piece would you share with people who want to discover orchestral music?
The mighty Borodin Symphony No.2 is a piece I discovered during my time with WAYO – although it’s relatively unknown, it is a very accessible and exciting work.