Queensland Conservatorium alumnus Katie Noonan has been appointed director of music for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games’ opening and closing ceremonies -an epic production destined to be viewed by a global television audience of up to 1.5 billion.

Noonan, a five-time ARIA Award-winner and a former Arts, Education and LawOutstanding Alumnus of the Year, was among a host of home-grown talent appointed to produce and perform in the ceremonies.

“I’m a fiercely proud Queensland musician,” she said.

“I think we make some of the best music in the world and indeed some of the best art in the world,” she said.

“There’s some truly world class dance and music being made here, so it’s a good time to focus on our cultural identity and realise that we’re really good at what we do.”

Director of the Queensland Conservatorium Professor Scott Harrison said Noonan’s appointment was further evidence of the high calibre of teaching and learning at the Con.

“We’re delighted to see one of our alumni appointed to such a key role,” he said.

“Music will be an integral part of the opening and closing ceremonies, and it is an enormous privilege to lead a production on this scale.

“Katie is one of many talented alumni making their mark in the industry after receiving a world-class music education at the Con.

“We remain the dream destination for aspiring young musicians from around the world — confirmed by our position among the top 50 performing arts programs in the world, and our recent ranking as the country’s leading creative arts school.”

Katie’s experience and versatility as singer, musician, songwriter, producer and champion of the arts has seen her collaborate on stage with the likes of the Australian Chamber Orchestra and the Queensland Ballet. She has served as the Artistic Director of the Queensland Music Festival since 2015.

Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation Chairman, Peter Beattie AC said the GC2018 opening and closing Ceremonies marked the biggest event in Gold Coast’s history.

“The calibre of the people behind the creation and production of the opening and closing ceremonies is remarkable. I am confident the right people are in place and that they will deliver exceptional shows that will make all Queenslanders and Australians proud,” Mr Beattie said.

About 4,000 people will take part in the two shows next April, with key casting and thematic details to remain a closely guarded secret.