Scordatura Learning
Resources, ideas and professional development for transformative, 21st-century music leadership
Supporting you at every stage
How is Scordatura different?
We are building an entirely new educational resource for music leaders of the 21st Century - curated ideas to enhance what you're already doing, mini-bootcamps to refine your technique and bring you back to your foundations, and a wealth of tools to support you if you're picking up a baton for the first time.
Over the coming months, we'll be producing a range of resources. You might grab a full bundle for a comprehensive study of conducting, or you may just pick a couple of things to complement your study at a traditional institution. You might already be well into your career, and just want a loving jab in the ribs to get your beat pattern back into shape. Whatever your situation, we will do everything we can to support you.
We're not accredited yet, but watch this space. It's in the works!
Have some more specific questions? Look to the right, my friend.
Over the coming months, we'll be producing a range of resources. You might grab a full bundle for a comprehensive study of conducting, or you may just pick a couple of things to complement your study at a traditional institution. You might already be well into your career, and just want a loving jab in the ribs to get your beat pattern back into shape. Whatever your situation, we will do everything we can to support you.
We're not accredited yet, but watch this space. It's in the works!
Have some more specific questions? Look to the right, my friend.
Who am I learning with?
My name is Holly Mathieson. I'm an award-winning conductor, educator and devoted advocate for equity and accessibility in the classical music sector. In 2021, I founded Scordatura, a multi-armed digital toolkit for classical music and the people who love it.
With 25 years of experience teaching and mentoring conductors of all ages, levels of experience and music genres from around the globe, I know I can unlock your own insight and purpose as a music leader, and propel your professional growth.
With 25 years of experience teaching and mentoring conductors of all ages, levels of experience and music genres from around the globe, I know I can unlock your own insight and purpose as a music leader, and propel your professional growth.
I can also tap the shoulders of some of the most interesting minds in our industry, to deliver bitesize tips and pearls of wisdom from those who are living it.
My mission is to help build a resilient and diversified art music ecosystem and economy, and I believe that work starts with supporting our teachers, students, and grass-roots music leaders. These resources are for you.
Holly Mathieson
Founder, Scordatura
What you can expect
Free downloadable resources, a customisable on-demand learning platform, and open communication to support you at every stage
Our Courses
Testimonials
Holly gave me the skills to take my conducting from purely instinctual to informed and effective. I learned plenty of specifics from Holly, including approachable score-study, clear baton technique, and the kinds of questions to ask oneself when preparing to conduct a piece.
More than that, though, Holly modelled for me the kind of mindset which enables a healthy relationship with the industry.
Lessons were a shame-free zone where I felt respected and appreciated for the specific musician I was, and Holly’s clear-eyed, ego-free understanding of the practice of conducting was an example which I believe is unique within the field.
I highly recommend Holly’s teaching to anyone on their journey towards inspiring and effective musical leadership.
More than that, though, Holly modelled for me the kind of mindset which enables a healthy relationship with the industry.
Lessons were a shame-free zone where I felt respected and appreciated for the specific musician I was, and Holly’s clear-eyed, ego-free understanding of the practice of conducting was an example which I believe is unique within the field.
I highly recommend Holly’s teaching to anyone on their journey towards inspiring and effective musical leadership.
Charlotte Perkins, Conductor and Violinist (Haver Quartet)
'Holly Mathieson has been one of the most exceptional educators with whom we have engaged at the OAcademy Music Conservatory. The Orchestra and the Conducting Fellows have valued Holly Mathieson for her approachable manner and supportive style of communication while creating a very stimulating classroom environment and conveying crucial provocations for young artists to tackle. At the same time, she has a unique way of intriguing our Fellows with a fresh look and excitement for the art form. Holly Mathieson has been a wonderful contributor to OAcademy and we have also recommended her for satellite events like the Open Campus where the overall feedback from Fellows has been hugely positive.'
Eva Senger, Managing Director, OAcademy Music Conservatory
Holly Mathieson is a remarkable musician and educator whom I've had the privilege of working alongside for the past four years. In every aspect of her work she is compelling, empathetic, and integrity-driven. She has an exceptional ability to support students - whether virtually or in person - conveying complex information and distilling it into manageable essentials.
Underpinning Holly's work is her acute understanding of the classical music industry: she celebrates its successes and works towards addressing its shortcomings. But most importantly, her vast knowledge beyond conducting and classical music instills her work with perspective and clarity. I have the utmost respect for Holly Mathieson. She is an inspiring individual who cares deeply about her responsibilities as a Music Director and as an educator.
Scott Wilson - Conductor
Director, Carlos Miguel Prieto Conducting Fellowship
Director, Conducting Short Courses, Guildhall School of Music and Drama
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