Dr Jodie Blackshaw

Dr. Jodie Blackshaw is a distinguished composer, educator, and researcher who has dedicated over 30 years to the advancement of music for the wind symphony and music education. She earned her PhD in Composition from the Australian National University in 2020, complementing a Bachelor of Music and a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Music. Her compositions, fusion of pedagogical processes and advocacy have been the subject of numerous post-graduate research papers, enhancing her academic presence in the field of wind music.

As a prominent figure in the international wind music community, Dr. Blackshaw serves as a Board Member for the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE) and is the Chair of the WASBE Composer Network for the 2026-2028 term. The extent of Dr. Blackshaw’s reach is illustrated by an extensive portfolio of international composer residencies across secondary and tertiary institutions. These include prestigious engagements at the University of British Columbia, Ithaca College, and SUNY Potsdam as the Joy Douglass Visiting Master Teacher. Her global reach extends to residencies at the United Nations International School in Hanoi, the American School of Dubai, and Hong Kong International School, as well as numerous Australian institutions such as Barker College and Caulfield Grammar School.

Dr. Blackshaw’s research-driven approach led to the creation of Teaching Performance through Composition (TPTC), a global pedagogical series that integrates neuroscience and inquiry-based learning to foster student agency within large ensembles. Furthermore, as the founder of ColourFULL Music, she has become a leading advocate for diversity in repertoire, successfully influencing major international organisations like the Midwest Clinic to adopt inclusive programming mandates.

A sought-after keynote speaker and clinician, she has presented at prestigious conferences across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Her creative excellence is recognized through numerous accolades, including first place in the Frank Ticheli Composition Contest and the ANZCA Prize in Composition. Through her multifaceted career, Dr. Blackshaw continues to bridge the gap between artistic creation, community engagement, and educational innovation.