The genealogy and anatomy of the Australian tertiary music sector: How far have we come and where are we going?

Abstract

2007 sees some significant landmarks including the 50th anniversary of the foundation of Queensland Conservatorium. The tertiary music sector has since then grown and diversified to an extent that could not have been predicted in 1957. It is thus timely to review the sector, particularly various a number of national reviews have occurred recently, such as that of school music. Various spokespersons have suggested a similar review of Australia's tertiary music sector might also arise in the near future, but it is unlikely that NACTMUS could instantly muster the evidence to successfully address such an inquiry, since much of the relevant information is only disparately available. This paper draws parallels between the perceived status and identity of Australian music schools in previous decades and now in the early 21st century after several decades of immense changes. It is incumbent upon NACTMUS to facilitate dissemination of evidence of our sectors' collective contribution and aspirations, despite the challenges of geographical dispersal. The challenges looming for the sector will be met with confidence if it can develop greater awareness of its own genealogy and anatomy, something that would better inform its relationship to the plethora of stakeholders it is ideally expected to serve.