STAFF BIOGRAPHIES

Kathleen's earned qualifications in music and education include a Bachelor of Music in composition from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, a Graduate Diploma of Education from Monash University, a Graduate Diploma in Music (conducting) from the Victorian College of the Arts, a Master of Music degree in conducting (with Distinction) from the University of Surrey (Guildford, UK) and a doctorate in conducting from the University of Colorado at Boulder (USA). She also holds two certificates in tertiary education.

While based for two decades in the United States, Kathleen led the 200 voice San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus, the Community Women's Orchestra, and in 2010, encouraged and inspired by Jonathon Welch, she founded Singers of the Street: a choir of San Franciscans affected by homelessness. Recognising her contributions, "Kathleen McGuire Day" was designated twice by San Francisco mayors and she received official recognitions from the California State Legislature and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

Kathleen has also received awards from The American Prize and she is a Rotary International Ambassadorial Fellow. In addition to her Upbeat Arts duties, Kathleen now serves as Director of Music at Queen's College The University of Melbourne, teaches music at Brunswick Secondary College, and works as a freelance composer and arranger.

Kerry is an engaging Musical Director who loves to connect with people from all types of backgrounds and experience and share her passion for music. In addition to her work around Melbourne, her understanding of the needs of 'all-abilities' singers saw her receive a 2017 Regional Arts Grant enabling her travel to Far North Queensland to run choral workshops and assist in the creation of an all-abilities project choir Voices of Gold. Kerry is also a highly regarded Choral Accompanist having worked with numerous choirs and choral events around Melbourne and regional Victoria. 

Since 2011, Kerry has worked with Short Black Opera Company - Australia's National Indigenous Opera Company. Her role as Manager of the Dhungala Children's Choir (DCC) sees her working with indigenous youth performers from all over the country during touring and special events managing all aspects of the rehearsal and performance period. Events have included the opening of MPavilion, recording and performing with Archie Roach and SBO Intensives (various 3 day workshop events). 

Kerry also has a passion for youth performance. In addition to running a regular programme at Donvale Primary School, recent engagements have been with the Australian Children's Choir and the youth chorus of More Than Opera's "Peace A Cantata for John Monash" at Hamer Hall. She has been selected as one of the conductors of the 1300-voice Massed Choir for the Victorian State Schools Spectacular for the past two years. When she's not busy running choirs, Kerry sings with Melbourne-based "Choristry".