Episode 12. Paul Grabowsky: Cultural Leadership Across Genres
This week, Sam is joined by one of Australia’s most distinguished artists: Paul Grabowsky, pianist, composer, arranger, and conductor. Paul has had a huge career in Australia. He became a household name as musical director of Tonight Live with Steve Vizard (where he was an inspiration to me as a young, aspiring jazz pianist in Tasmania!), was Commissioning Editor (Arts and Entertainment) for ABC Television 1995-98 and has had artistic director roles at the Queensland Music Festival and Adelaide Festival of Arts.
He has written in multiple genres and worked with numerous artists. As founder of the Australian Art Orchestra, he created several commended projects and collaborations, notably Ringing the Bell Backwards and Ruby - a project he created with Archie Roach as part of their longstanding working relationship. Speaking of collaborations, Paul has recorded some stunning piano vocal duo albums where he accompanies Vince Jones, Kate Ceberano and - most recently - Paul Kelly.
He talked to Sam about the various roles he has held; traversing the perspectives of an artist, a leader and an administrator, and how the principles of jazz guide his approach to leadership. He shared his views on the intersection of art, politics and social change.
Links:
The Australian Art Orchestra
Monash Performing Arts Centre
https://www.monash.edu/performing-arts-centres/
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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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