Management Staff

Executive Director
Ben Burgess

Ben’s professional musical career began when at seventeen he successfully auditioned for a casual position in the oboe section of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra.  This appointment led to many engagements including WASO’s tour to Sydney and Melbourne and numerous WA Opera and WA Ballet seasons.  He also recorded and was broadcast for ABC Classic FM and has since made guest appearances in many orchestras throughout Australia.

Soon after completing his Bachelor of Music, Ben was accepted in the Arts Management course at WAAPA.  During his final year of study, he was appointed Classical Music Manager for the Perth International Arts Festival, with direct management of the entire classical music program, including the establishment of the Perth International Chamber Music Festival for the 2001 and 2002 Festival. During this time he also acted as Administration Manager of the Festival for a significant time.

In 2002, Ben was appointed Concert and Event Manager at the Australian National University. During this time he managed many events including key collaborative events with the National Gallery, National Library and the Diplomatic community.  In 2004, he beat a decorated national field to accept a short term contract with the Australian Festival of Chamber Music before returning to Canberra.

In 2005, Ben was appointed Executive Director of the WA Youth Music Association, of which he was a long term member.  During his tenure he has managed a period of incredibly strong growth and development in all areas.

Business Development & Marketing Manager
Yvette Brownlie

Operations Manager
Chris Rich

Administration & Outreach Manager
Holly Norman  

Operations Assistants (p/t)
Jessica Davey
Leah Blankendaal
Anna Sarcich