ABC Classic and ABC Jazz content manager Toby Chadd to depart the role

ABC Classic and ABC Jazz content manager Toby Chadd is departing the ABC after more than three years of giving voice to diverse Australian music, creativity and talent on the national stage.

Toby leaves ABC Classic as the national network enjoys its strongest audience reach figures on record. His tenure since 2018 has also featured the launch of the annual Festival of Female Composers, the ABC Jazz Artist in Residence program, and last year’s national Classic Choir amid the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

ABC Classic and ABC Jazz this month also launched a composer commissioning fund to champion under-represented voices, continuing the networks’ long tradition of nurturing Australian music-making.

Chadd will move to his new role of director of artistic planning with the Australian Chamber Orchestra after leaving the ABC on 30 April.

Chadd said it had been a privilege to work with the ABC’s classical and jazz teams over the past eight years, including four years on the ABC Classics music label. “Every day I’ve been reminded about how important music is in all our lives, as we hear from audiences about the solace, inspiration and stimulation that our networks bring them and see record numbers tuning in,” he said.

“ABC Classic and ABC Jazz occupy a unique position in the Australian landscape, enjoying collaborations with a whole host of astonishing musicians – broadcasting their live performances to a national and international audience and building new projects that develop our culture and nurture future voices and audiences.

“In an increasingly fragmented media world, the unique power of radio to reach into our lives, combined with the cultural remit of a public broadcaster, has never been so important. The ABC’s broadcasters, technicians and producers are world-beating and working with them is a thrill that I will miss dearly. But I’m looking forward to listening and watching as they continue to connect us with the world’s greatest music.”

Chris Scaddan, ABC head of music & creative development, said: “ABC Classic & ABC Jazz are both stronger than ever thanks to Toby’s leadership and the continued work of the whole team. We saw this especially in 2020, when record audiences turned to ABC Classic for companionship and fine music to help them through the pandemic.

“We’re really going to miss Toby’s creative spirit and endless enthusiasm for the content and the team. He’s been an inspiration and we wish him all the best for his new role with the ACO.”

ABC broadcaster Joe Gelonesi will act as content manager for ABC Classic and ABC Jazz while a permanent replacement is found.