Episode 27: Julia Fredersdorff: Founder of Van Diemen's Band on building a world-leading baroque ensemble from the heart of Tasmania

Decoding Cultural Leadership

In this episode, Sam speaks with Julia Fredersdorff, founder and artistic director of Van Diemen's Band, about:

- Julia's journey from studying baroque violin in Europe to founding Van Diemen's Band in Tasmania

- The challenges and rewards of starting a period instrument ensemble in Tasmania

- Van Diemen's Band's mission to introduce audiences to lesser-known baroque repertoire

- The importance of regional touring and building relationships with communities

- Julia's approach to programming that balances familiar works with more obscure pieces

- Her views on breaking down barriers between performers and audiences

- The vibrant cultural scene in Tasmania and collaborations with other arts organizations

- Future plans for Van Diemen's Band, including experimenting with cross-genre projects

- Julia's philosophy of embracing the "imperfect" in both baroque instruments and performances

Key quotes:

"I want to embrace the imperfect and not be afraid to make mistakes."

"There's so much repertoire that people don't know...it's like the equivalent of a renovator's delight, in that you find this thing and you bring it back, and people go, 'Oh my God, that's so good.'"

"We're on a real mission...to make [our performance spaces] welcoming, and a place that is warm and friendly, not distant."

Links:

Van Diemen's Band

Latitude 37

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Presenter and research: Sam Cairnduff

Creative Director: Niloofar Pashmforoosh

Presented in association with Limelight

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