John Curro
John Curro AM MBE was both the founder and Director of Music for Queensland Youth Orchestras (QYO), conducting the Queensland Youth Symphony since its beginning in 1966. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr Curro received many prestigious awards including Member of the Order of Australia and Member of the British Empire.
Sarah-Grace Williams
Sarah-Grace Williams has received acclaim from audiences and critics alike for her vibrant energy, outstanding musicianship and dynamic presence on the podium with Limelight Magazine listing her amongst ‘10 of the Best Women Conductors – trailblazing talents that are leading the way for women conductors all over the world’.
Sean O’Boyle
An internationally renowned composer, conductor and performer, Mr O’Boyle was awarded the Order of Australia in 2015. Sean has collaborated with artists such as The Whitlams, Kate Ceberano, Tommy Emmanuel and James Morrison, and has written and produced music for more than 150 albums.
A/Prof Peter Luff
Associate Professor Peter Luff studied french horn at the University of Adelaide’s prestigious Elder Conservatorium. During his career as a professional horn player he has performed with most of Australia’s leading professional orchestras and arts organisations and is associate principal horn with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Christian Pegley
Christians work has been showcased on local radio stations and as composer for a BBC documentary series. He has also established bands for corporate events, weddings and award ceremonies.
Stephanie Schwarze
Stephanie is very excited to be part of the prestigious ASPIRE International Youth Music Festival and is looking forward to creating extraordinary experiences for the students and everyone else involved.
Jamie Wansey
Over the last thirteen years Jamie has proudly organised over 500 successful music trips, sports tours and educational trips. Jamie is owner – founder of Student Horizons and is proud the festival will help to promote and support the Student Horizons Foundation for disadvantaged youth.
Brooke Wansey
If anyone on the ASPIRE team knows about music, competition and travel it has to be Brooke; an experienced alto Saxophone player. Brooke played Saxophone throughout her college years from training in Year 7 through to performing in the Concert and Jazz bands.
Diana Alfonso
Diana is very proud to be part of ASPIRE 2019 and aims that every student that participates in the festival gets an unforgettable experience.
Xiaojing Lin
As a big fan of music, Lynx has learned piano for 5 years as well as the basics of guitar and flute. She formed an A Capella group with her friends in 2016 and participated in many music performances in college. She is also very passionate about writing her own songs in her spare time.