The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra has announced that arts leader Caroline Sharpen will be the orchestra’s Chief Executive Officer. Sharpen’s contract will commence in January 2019, taking the reins from long-serving Managing Director Nicholas Heyward, who – as announced in March – will step down at the end of 2018 after 17 years at the helm.

Originally from Tasmania, and with longstanding family connections dating back to 1804, Sharpen’s orchestral experience with the TSO started when she was seven and she described this appointment as a “lifelong dream”.

Caroline Sharpen. Photo: supplied

“That early experience fuelled my passion for music and shaped my life and career in orchestras and chamber music organisations in Australia and the United States. I’m thrilled to return home to Tasmania and contribute to the artistic growth of the TSO for future generations,” Sharpen said.

Sharpen joins the TSO following senior positions with Musica Viva Australia, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and most recently, operating her own consultancy, Sharpen Creative Industries Consulting, which has worked with numerous Tasmanian and high profile arts organisations including the Tasmanian Youth Orchestra, Australian World Orchestra and Australian Brandenburg Orchestra. Sharpen was the first Australian to be awarded a prestigious...