The Brian Stacey memorial Trust

Patrons

Stacey

When the much loved Australian conductor Brian Stacey died tragically on 25 October, 1996, the night before the premier of Sunset Boulevard in Melbourne, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber described "Stacey’s" death as "a loss to the world of music theatre, not just Australia".

Passionately Australian, Stacey was above all committed to the future of the arts in his own country. He refused to be pigeonholed into one musical genre. He conducted for ballet and opera, was unsurpassed in his musical direction of works by Sondheim and Bernstien, could and did swing with the best of the jazz musicians, and brought to musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera and Sunset Boulevard the same professionalism and attention to detail that inspired his work in the classical repertoire.

Working with Stacey on a show was special. He gave equal attention to all, from the most junior chorus member to the most established star. Fame did not change him. His success was won through talent and hard work and he never forgot what it was like to be a beginner. Stories about him abound. He always took his tea from a bone china cup and saucer, producing fine china tea service (a present from one of "his" orchestras) from the Liberty of London carpetbag he carried with him everywhere.

At performances Stacey would arrive on his Kawasaki, enter his dressing room in motorbike leathers and helmet, emerge in tails carrying a baton, then step onto the podium to conduct anything from grand opera to cabaret. As the program note for the memorial celebration concert put it- extremely cool.

‘.. The conductor must not only make his orchestra play, he must also make them want to play, he must exalt them, lift them, start their adrenalin pouring. Either through cajoling or demanding or raging. But however he does it, he must make the orchestra love the music, as he loves it. And when this happens there is a human identity of feeling that has not equal elsewhere. It is the closest thing I know to love itself. On this current of love the conductor can communicate at the deepest levels with his audience...’

To family, friends and all those who worked with him or were touched by his performances, Stacey is unforgettable. The Trust established in his name will endow a fellowship to ensure that other conductors like Stacey can develop and flourish in their own country and the world stage- passionately Australian and individual.

The Brian Stacey Fellowship

A conductor’s professional training extends over many years. As well as formal study, conductors need the opportunity to work with orchestras and established conductors. The Brian Stacey Fellowship will be awarded on merit in response to a submission.

Foundation Awards

Until the Trust Fund has reached a target amount that will provide an annual income to support the fellowship, the Trustees will seek sponsorship for special foundation awards. The Trustees will call for submissions for the first foundation award in October 1997, as a tribute to Brian Stacey’s memory on the anniversary of his death.

How you can help

The Trustees invite you to join them and other contributors whose gifts have made the Brian Stacey Memorial trust a reality. By making a gift to the Trust Fund you will be sharing in a dream to see Australian conductors shine at home and on the world stage, and share in the pride of knowing that you have helped to support their achievement. Whatever you can afford will be greatly valued. Donations are fully tax deductable. A donation slip is included in this brochure for your convenience.

While gifts of money to the fund are essential to establish the fellowships, there may be other ways you can help, by donating services or organising fund-raising activities.

Finally

Stacey’s philosophy was a simple one. It was summed up in the words from Candide sung as the finale to the memorial concert:

The Brian Stacey Memorial Trust for the development of young Australian conductors Donation Form

Donations to the Brian Stacey Memorial Trust are tax deductible. You can donate by, printing out and completing the form below and mailing it with your donation directly to the Trust.

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This donation is given unconditionally


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Inquiries regarding the Brian Stacey Memorial Trust should be directed to:

C/- Andrea Gaze
Mobile: 0412 585 181, or
via e-mail