A former graduate of the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University will soon take the top post as Director from September 2.
Professor Scott Harrison is currently the Deputy Director (Research) and serves on the University’s Board of Graduate Research.
The appointment reflects his lifetime connection with music, which has seen him both perform as a rock guitarist and sing with Opera Queensland for 20 years, all the while teaching in a variety of education facilities throughout the State.
It’s this balance as a performer and educator that will see his career come full circle as he takes the top position in the University where he first launched his career, supported now by many of the same staff who previously taught him.
Professor Harrison initially returned to Griffith University in 2000 as a casual lecturer in music and was permanently appointed in 2004. Since then he has also served as Deputy Head of School (Research) for the School of Education and Professional Studies.
Previously, Professor Harrison held the position of Director of Music at Marist College, Head of Performing Arts at John Paul College and Clairvaux MacKillop College, and a key leadership role with Central Queensland University.
He previously served as National President of the Australian National Association of Teachers of Singing and has been recognised for his innovative and consultative approaches to academic development and leadership.
Professor Harrison’s background in music education and his professional opera singing experience contribute and inform his approach to leadership. His research is focused on various aspects of music learning and teaching in three domains: Masculinities and Music, Music Pedagogy and Curriculum and Music and Health.
Professor Harrison believes the Queensland Conservatorium will continue to play a vital role in the cultural life of Queensland, as it has for more than 50 years.
“Our programs already offer enormous depth across a range of genres – popular music, musical theatre, jazz, classical music, technology and opera and we will be looking to enhance these offerings into the future.”
“Our engagement with the arts community is critical, as is our responsibility to train creative practitioners for the realities of the 21st century.
“We have exciting times ahead and the revitalised Queensland Conservatorium as part of the New Griffith will offer benefits across the State,” he said.