Episode 35: Umberto Clerici -The QSO’s Chief Conductor: Transforming Orchestra Culture

Decoding Cultural Leadership

This week's guest is Umberto Clerici, Chief Conductor of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, speaking on the occasion of his contract renewal announcement.

In this fascinating conversation, Umberto shares insights from his remarkable journey from internationally acclaimed cellist to his current role leading one of Australia's major orchestras. He discusses his unexpected transition to conducting, his philosophy on orchestra leadership, and his vision for classical music's role in contemporary society.

The interview explores Umberto's unique perspective as a musician who spent 20 years performing in orchestras before taking up the baton. He reflects on how this experience shapes his approach to conducting and working with musicians, emphasising the importance of emotional intelligence and understanding orchestra dynamics.

Key discussion points include:

• The conductor's role in empowering musicians while maintaining artistic direction
• Challenges facing young conductors in Australia
• Contrasts between European and Australian cultural landscapes
• The role of orchestras in social discourse and community engagement
• Balancing artistic excellence with accessibility
• QSO's initiatives including regional touring and First Nations engagement
• The future of classical music in an AI-driven world

Throughout the conversation, Umberto emphasizes his vision of normalizing classical music in Australian cultural life while maintaining its power to challenge, inspire, and open minds. He advocates for orchestras to engage with contemporary issues through programming, while maintaining artistic rather than political focus.

This conversation offers valuable insights into cultural leadership from someone who brings both deep musical expertise and fresh perspectives to orchestral conducting.

Links:

• Queensland Symphony Orchestra

About Umberto Clerici:
Umberto Clerici is the Chief Conductor of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. His international career began as a cellist, making his solo debut at age 17 in Japan. He has performed at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, Vienna's Musicverein, and is one of only two Italians to win a prize for cello in the International Tchaikovsky Competition. Before transitioning to conducting in 2018, he served as Principal Cello with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. He performs on cellos by Matteo Goffriller (1722, Venezia) and Carlo Antonio Testore (1758, Milano).

Episode Credits:

• Host: Samuel Cairnduff
• Guest: Umberto Clerici

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

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