Resonate Magazine | Australian Music Centre

Image: Alan Watt  
© Matthew Duchesne

The Board of the Australian Music Centre (AMC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Alan Watt to the Board, effective 28 March 2025.

Alan brings to the AMC a wealth of experience in music, arts management, and philanthropy, both in Australia and internationally. His distinguished career includes leadership roles with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Australian Youth Orchestra, and the Sydney Dance Company, where he served most recently as Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships.

Internationally, Alan was Chief Executive of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields in London, where he guided the organisation through a period of significant change, including the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership saw the successful delivery of new programs, creative online content, and a major fundraising campaign that strengthened the organisation's long-term sustainability.

Currently, Alan is the Associate Director of Philanthropy at the Cumming Global Centre for Pandemic Therapeutics at the University of Melbourne. His career spans the development of strategic philanthropy programs, executive leadership, and consultancy work with a focus on supporting creative enterprises and small charities. Alan has also mentored emerging artists and creative entrepreneurs, sharing his insights and experience to help them grow their practice.

Alan holds a BA and BMus from the University of Melbourne and an MA in Cultural & Creative Industries from King's College London. Earlier in his career, he also performed as a casual member of the Opera Australia chorus.

As the AMC celebrates its 50th anniversary, we are honoured to welcome Alan to the Board. His passion for music and deep expertise in philanthropy and arts leadership will be invaluable as we continue to champion Australian creators, musicians, and artists.