Peter Garnick, Managing Director
Peter’s 30-year career as an executive of performing arts organisations spans orchestras and opera companies in the US and Australia. In 2008 he left his role as Managing Director of Orchestra Victoria after 11 years to pursue his interests in the visual arts. Peter joined the Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust as Managing Director in June 2010. “Our work is to build that bridge to the professional sphere. We select the small number of people who have the talent, drive and instinct to be successful – then, through money and contacts and mentoring, we help to build the bridge so they can take that step.”
Amy McPartlan, General Manager
Amy is a trained classical singer with a background in marketing, public relations and events management. She started her first business at 19 and subsequently joined the staff of the Melba Conservatorium of Music. She performed a variety of administrative roles culminating in her appointment in 2008 as inaugural General Manager of the Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust. “Australia has some exceptional young singers and their talent deserves to be supported and nurtured. Melba knew this and we proudly continue her vision through the work of the Trust.”
Jo Beaumont, Melba Artists
Violinist Jo Beaumont was raised and educated in Melbourne. For thirty years she pursued her musical career in Italy, becoming Deputy Leader of the Orchestra at La Scala Opera House in Milan and Professor of Violin at Milan Conservatorium. Following her return to Australia in 2000 she was String Coordinator at Australian National Academy of Music and Concertmaster and Artistic Director of Orchestra Victoria.
Jo’s vision is that Melba Artists will provide opportunities to talented singers to perform as much as possible – from recitals to small operas, recordings and church music.
Bruce Raggatt, Program Coordinator
Bruce is a trained classical singer, who has, for most of his career, worked in the classical recording industry in roles as varied as sales manager and buyer to interviewer and MC at in-store events. He has published magazine articles on classical music and written CD liner notes. Bruce also has considerable experience in editing and proofing. Since joining the Trust in December 2010 he has enjoyed being a member of a small and dedicated team working to further the presence of opera in Australia. “Life without opera is like a cake without icing.”
Simon Suen, Finance & Human Resources
Simon is a chartered certified accountant with broad experience in finance, accounting, and human resource gained in various organisations in Hong Kong, China, Singapore, and Australia. He joined the Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust as Finance and HR Officer in April 2010.
Anne Kennedy, Administration & Events
Anne comes to the Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust after a 15 year career with Telstra. Her roles ranged from front of house to Sales Performance Manager which saw her take on Reward and Recognition and Event Management. In 2009 she joined Restaurant & Catering Victoria as Awards & Events Coordinator. Anne completed her Diploma in Business Management in 2006 and brings a broad base of experience and skills to the role. Anne is looking forward to further raising the profile and recognition of The Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust.