In 2016, the Friends of the ANU School of Music have provided continuing support to the staff and students of the school. The situation at the school continues to be difficult. However, after the review by Professor Andrew Podger and, with the recent commitments made by Professor Brian Schmidt, Vice Chancellor of the ANU, the Friends are cautiously optimistic about rebuilding a viable music school over the coming years. The University’s commitment of $12.5m over 5 years combined with the ACT Government’s promise of $1m over 4 years will bring welcome additional staff and equipment to the school. There is still some doubt about raising sufficient funds to rebuild a significant performance stream but the early signs are encouraging. 

As noted last year, whenever the students perform in public and for assessment, the Friends find our spirits lifted and our hopes renewed. This continues to be the most obvious reinforcement that the school is worth saving and nurturing back to being an institution that reflects positively on the ANU and Canberra.

For most of the year, Dr Royston Gustavson acted as Head of School. His approach was pro-active and open. Following the appointment of Professor Malcolm Gillies in October, the school has a full time acting Head of School pending the selection of a permanent head. The selection process has been difficult. With the recent commitments from the university, the process will hopefully result in a high calibre appointment early in 2017.