Musica Viva Announces New Leadership Team

Musica Viva Australia today announced that Hywel Sims has been appointed CEO, while Anne Frankenberg will step into the newly created, Melbourne-based role of Deputy Chief Executive. Hywel Sims has been an integral member of Musica Viva’s senior management since 2014, initially as Director of Development and currently as General Manager, Victoria. The new role of Deputy Chief Executive recognises Musica Viva’s longstanding commitment to Melbourne as a major centre for the arts in Australia.

“We’re thrilled to secure Hywel as CEO and to welcome Anne to our leadership team,” said Charles Graham, Chairman of Musica Viva. “With their dynamic energy, complementary skillsets and extensive leadership experience in both performance and education, they’re extremely well placed to work with the Musica Viva team in taking the organisation to fresh heights.”

Originally from Wales, Hywel Sims has led not-for-profit organisations since 1992. His tenure in Victoria has been marked by strong box office results, an expanded supporter base and the resounding success of Musica Viva’s first Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition. Having led organisations in the UK, US and Australia, Hywel brings a broad international perspective, as well as a deep commitment to music and music education in Australia, fostered through his work with Gondwana Choirs and – more recently – Musica Viva. “At its heart, chamber music is about collaboration and partnership,” he says. “Musica Viva…exists to present the best of the world’s music to Australians, foster the next generation of Australian musicians and provide equal access to expert music education in the country’s schools. I’m delighted to partner with Anne Frankenberg and the management team in achieving this vision.”

Anne joins Musica Viva from the Australian National Academy of Music, where she is currently Deputy General Manager. Initially trained as a clarinettist, she holds degrees in Music and Psychology, an Executive MBA, and has had an arts management career with the Victoria State Opera, Opera Australia, and 3MBS Radio. She was inaugural General Manager of Victorian Opera. “I’ve developed huge respect for Musica Viva and its outstanding team throughout my time in the music sector, most recently in its partnership with ANAM in presenting the Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition. I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with Hywel Sims to drive forward this truly national organisation with a critically important remit.”