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Lydia Dobbin
Founder and Director, Play On
Professional Background
Lydia Dobbin is a highly accomplished musicologist and arts manager based in Melbourne, Australia, who has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape through her innovative approaches and leadership roles in various organizations. Lydia founded and currently serves as the Director at Play On, a dynamic initiative that aims to engage and inspire audiences through music and the arts. With extensive experience in community arts, festival programming, and artistic administration, Lydia has cultivated a rich career that spans multiple facets of the music industry.
Before founding Play On, Lydia showcased her exceptional talents as the Community Arts Manager at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing community engagement through creative arts initiatives. Her time at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival as Programmer / Producer allowed her to curate compelling musical experiences for audiences while supporting local and international jazz artists.
In addition, Lydia held the position of Artistic Administrator at the renowned Port Fairy Spring Music Festival, where she was instrumental in orchestrating one of Australia’s premier music events, which celebrates diverse musical compositions and performances. Her prior role as Manager of the Seraphim Trio further exemplifies her dedication to supporting chamber music and fostering artistic excellence. Through her diverse roles, Lydia Dobbin has developed a unique blend of skills that encompasses strategic planning, community outreach, and a profound understanding of musicology.
Education and Achievements
Lydia Dobbin’s academic achievements reflect her deep passion for music and literature. She graduated with a Bachelor of Music (Honours) in Musicology from the prestigious University of Melbourne, where she honed her expertise in understanding and analyzing music's cultural significance. Building on this foundation, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Literature at the same institution, merging her love for the written word with her musical pursuits.
Furthering her academic credentials, Lydia also earned a Master of Music (MMus) in Musicology from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, equipping her with a profound understanding of music's historical contexts and theoretical frameworks. Her education has been pivotal in shaping her career and her ability to contribute meaningfully to both academia and the arts community.
Achievements
Lydia Dobbin's career is characterized by notable achievements that underscore her influence and expertise in the arts sector. As the founder of Play On, she has developed a platform that not only showcases musical talents but also aims to create sustainable connections between artists and audiences. Her work in community arts was marked by innovative programs that cultivated creativity and inclusivity.
Lydia’s tenure with the Melbourne International Jazz Festival was particularly distinguished, where her programming efforts contributed to making the festival a significant hub for jazz enthusiasts. By collaborating with artists and stakeholders from various backgrounds, she ensured that the festival was a true reflection of both traditional and contemporary jazz music.
Her role at the Port Fairy Spring Music Festival included overseeing artistic selections and contributing to the festival's artistic vision, further demonstrating her excellent organizational skills and her ability to work collaboratively with a wide network of artists and performers.
As Manager of the Seraphim Trio, she played a crucial part in promoting chamber music and enhancing the arts community's connection to classical music. Lydia's diverse career trajectory, underscored by her commitment to excellence in the arts, makes her a prominent figure in Melbourne's cultural scene.
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