Norman Gillespie Takes The Chair At Omega Ensemble

Sydney-based chamber music group, Omega Ensemble has today announced Norman Gillespie as incoming Chair of the Board.
Gillespie will join the Omega Ensemble board in December 2024, after serving ten years as Chair of Pinchgut Opera.

Gillespie says he is excited about this opportunity with a company he has long admired, adding “I have a very clear idea of what the board’s role is. My conviction is that the main purpose of the board is to realise the vision of the Artistic Director. Yes, of course, there is governance and sustainability. But in the end, it’s all about the music.”

“Omega Ensemble plays a very distinct role in the cultural vibrancy of our arts sector, as well as being an ambassador for
Australian talent. It is sought out by established composers worldwide as the go-to Australian ensemble to premiere new
work. That is a great credit and of great value to Australia as we take our place on the world stage.”

Gillespie will replace current Chair Rory Jeffes, who was appointed in 2021, and who will remain on the board as a Director while undertaking several international orchestral consultancy projects.

Artistic Director and Founder David Rowden says Gillespie’s extensive experience and dedicated comes at a time of great opportunity for Omega Ensemble. “His extensive business leadership and deep commitment to the arts in Australia set him apart as a true leader and advocate for cultural excellence.”

Norman Gillespie holds a BA (Double Hons) in Music and English Literature from Queens Belfast, and completed a PhD at London University in 17th and 18th century English Theatre Music, on scholarship. Entering the UK Civil Service on a fast track scheme, Gillespie qualified in Finance and Tax Law. An extensive career in the private sector followed.

Combining his passion for the arts and business Gillespie was appointed CEO of Sydney Opera House in 2002, expanding SOH’s role as a producer of content, listing it on the World Heritage register, and overseeing the first substantial additions to the building under the guidance of the original architect Jorn Utzon. In 2010 he was appointed CEO of UNICEF Australia and later as their Chair of the worldwide network of National Committees, as their formal representative at the UN.

During his 27 years in Australia, Gillespie has been very active in the performing arts sector, as a Board Director of the Australian Business Arts Foundation (AbaF), Deputy Chair of the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, (1999-2012), as a Director of the Bowerbird Collective (2021-24), Director and Chair of Pinchgut Opera through a period of major transformation and development (2013-24), and inaugural Chair of the Australian Guitar Quartet (2024- ).

Norman Gillespie will officially commence his role with Omega Ensemble on 30 November 2024, coinciding with the ensemble’s 2025 Season launch.