Enjoy a concert and experience in the Conservatorium of Music

Symphonic Encounters offers a dynamic, multi-modal music education experience at the Conservatorium of Music. Students engage in movement, composition, improvisation, singing, and active listening, fostering creativity and musical understanding. It's an ideal opportunity for teachers to inspire and enrich their students' musical journeys.

The Hosts

Mark Grandison

Mark Grandison (b 1965) is a composer and music teacher, who currently leads Creative and Performing Arts at James Ruse Agricultural High School. He studied composition with Richard Meale in Adelaide, before moving to Sydney in 1994 to become Director of Music at Kambala School. Music education is a passion equal to his compositional pursuits, and he has continued to write in equal measure works for youth, amateur and professional groups.
Mark’s orchestral and chamber works have won numerous national and European composition contests. His works have received performances in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, South-East Asia, and the United States. A childhood and youth absorbed in popular and then jazz music often informs his music, which aspires to create an experience that integrates developmental rigour with a surface that is sensual and dramatic.
As a leading secondary Music educator, Mark built a world-class Music Department in Sydney, whilst presenting professional development workshops for teachers and composition / musicology masterclasses for students at many schools. His senior students have frequently featured among the top students of the state, and well over a hundred student compositions and essays nominated as exemplary. The annual Symphonic Encounters Series allows Mark to bring his enthusiasm and pedagogy for orchestral music to a wider audience
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Panagiotis Karamanos

Panagiotis Karamanos developed a passion for music at an early age, which led him to pursue formal studies in music teaching and conducting.
His musical journey began at the Conservatorium of Music, where he attended the Conservatorium High School starting in Year 7 in 2009. He began a Bachelor of Music Education in 2015, graduated in 2018, and most recently, commenced a Master’s degree in Conducting this year under the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Scott.
In 2016, Panagiotis founded the Modést orchestra comprised of University students, aiming to create a collaborative and stress-free environment focused on the joy of making music. This initiative has been praised for its innovative approach and dedication to musical excellence.
Panagiotis has also been active in the Australian music scene, contributing to various projects and performances that highlight contemporary compositions and sound art. His work includes collaborations with emerging artists, providing performance opportunities for young concerto soloists, and engaging with established Australian composers on significant projects. Notable achievements include the Melbourne Tour and premiere of Odysseus Live in collaboration with Luka Lesson, as well as the recording project in 2024 with composer Mark John McEncroe.