Melbourne Recital Centre has secured acclaimed festival director and composer Iain Grandage AM as its new Director of Programming.
The appointment represents a significant coup for Australia’s premier live music destination as it prepares for major expansion. Grandage brings exceptional artistic vision and curatorial expertise to the role, having recently completed a celebrated five-year tenure as Artistic Director of Perth Festival.
Melbourne Recital Centre’s decision to appoint Grandage comes at a pivotal moment for the organisation. The venue is preparing for significant growth with the launch of its new performance space The Peter and Ruth McMullin Beacon in 2026 and the completion of Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation in 2028.
Iain Grandage AM joins Melbourne Recital Centre
- Iain Grandage AM commences as Director of Programming on 28 July
- Melbourne Recital Centre, 31 Sturt Street, Southbank
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During his leadership of Perth Festival, Grandage transformed the event with innovative programming that championed both large-scale international performances and locally-rooted storytelling. His curatorial approach was recognised for bringing a distinctive sense of place to festivals, characterised by championing First Nations artists and stories while presenting acclaimed international and Australian artists.
As Director of Programming, Grandage will lead the curation of the venue’s diverse live music offerings while expanding collaborative reach across the arts and live music sectors. Grandage was recently awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for his leadership and service to the arts. His previous roles include Artistic Director of Port Fairy Spring Music Festival and Composer-in-Residence with WA Symphony Orchestra.
The accomplished musician and conductor has worked with orchestras across London, Berlin, Amsterdam and Australia, collaborating with renowned artists including Gurrumul, Kate Miller-Heidke and Tim Minchin. His award-winning work includes Helpmann Awards for productions with Meow Meow and Sydney Theatre Company.
Grandage succeeds Marshall McGuire, who held the role for nearly a decade. Elise Chantry, who served as interim Director of Programming, returns to her role as Programming Manager once Grandage commences.
For more information about Melbourne Recital Centre, head here.
