An internationally renowned composer, conductor and performer will lead a new major in Music at the University of the Sunshine Coast, starting Semester 1, 2018.

Sean O’Boyle AM has developed a suite of cutting-edge subjects, to be offered through USC’s Bachelor of Creative Industries, that will give aspiring professional performers, producers and composers the skills required for careers in the modern music industry.

Mr O’Boyle, who was awarded the Order of Australia in 2015, has collaborated with artists such as The Whitlams, Kate Ceberano, Tommy Emmanuel and James Morrison, and has written and produced music for more than 150 albums.

The former artist-in-residence at Moravian College in the United States said he was looking forward to helping talented local musicians – both vocal and instrumental – turn their passion into sustainable careers.

“We’ll be delivering students a Music program for the modern world,” he said. “Because it’s a brand new offering, students will be working with the latest technology, the latest techniques, and learning the skills they need to become successful professional musicians.

“This major will include hands-on courses in recording and production, using modern tools and equipment, as well as in subjects in song writing and composition.

“We’ll also be linking the students up with a range of fantastic industry artists, some of whom I’ve been lucky enough to work with over the years.”

Mr O’Boyle said he was confident that USC’s introduction of the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Music) would help make the University a hub for music on the Sunshine Coast and beyond.

“My vision is to incorporate music into everyday life here at USC,” he said. “The campus has a real buzz about music – we want to get a song writing club started, encourage students to play together, and connect aspiring performers and producers to industry professionals.”

USC’s Faculty of Arts, Business and Law Executive Dean Professor Joanne Scott said the University was delighted to have a musician of Mr O’Boyle’s calibre leading the new course of study.

— Gen Kennedy