In Episode 46, “The Show Must Go On”, Blenheim Partners‘ Gregory Robinson speaks to Sophie Galaise, Managing Director of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). She is also on the Board of Symphony Services International, a member of the Advisory Council of the Harvard Business Review, the Australian Institute of Company Directors and the CEO Institute in Australia.
Starting her career as a principal flautist in Germany at the age of 17, Sophie went on to become the Artistic Director of the Orford Arts Centre in Canada, Executive Director of the Quebec Symphony Orchestra, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Sophie was named as one of the Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence in 2015 and 2019.
Sophie shares with us how the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is working to break the mould and create a new DNA. By expanding their engagement with the community, they have transcended from being a traditional orchestra to capturing new audiences and winning hearts, through partnerships with sport and film, and crossovers with the likes of Elton John.
Finally, Sophie talks about the performing arts industry, arguably one of the most adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and calls for radical change to ensure its survival. She brings to light how the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has adapted, by being inventive, embracing technology and preparing for a different future, to broaden their reach to over five continents and keep the music playing.

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