Dr. Peter Handsworth is an accomplished music educator, conductor, and performer with a diverse and distinguished career spanning secondary, tertiary, and community music education. With a passion for nurturing creativity and excellence, Peter has consistently combined leadership, performance, and scholarship in a wide range of educational and professional settings.

Peter is currently Director of Performance Music and Events at Redlands College in Brisbane, where he oversees the College’s extensive music and choral programs. His role includes guiding a dedicated team of performance staff, coordinating major college events, and implementing innovative music education practices that align with the Australian Curriculum. His leadership ensures that students are supported holistically while being challenged artistically.

Previously, Peter served as Head of the School of Music at Monash University, where he played a pivotal role in the expansion and development of music programs. He was instrumental in the creation of new degrees and performance pathways, including instrumental and vocal pedagogy programs, a Bachelor of Music in Composition, and coursework PhDs. Under his leadership, the school cultivated a student-focused culture, strong community engagement, and a commitment to artistic innovation.

Peter’s performance career has included international tours as a clarinet soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player. As a conductor, he has led numerous ensembles including the Monash Wind Symphony, Monash Chamber Orchestra, Adelaide Wind Orchestra (which he founded), and the Adelaide Youth Sinfonia. His doctoral research explored how social and cultural contexts shape music performance education, providing valuable insights into student formation and artistic identity.

He has also been a founding member of the University of Adelaide’s Soundstream Collective and remains active in producing performance-based research, recordings, and live concerts. His commitment to community arts continues through his service on the Regional Arts Development Fund advisory panel and his advocacy for youth music initiatives.

Peter brings to every role a passion for excellence, strategic vision, and a strong belief in the transformative power of music education. His work continues to inspire students, educators, and communities alike.

MAJOR CD RECORDINGS

  • Tango Ethnoclassics (2015)
  • Conversations (Move Records, 2004)
  • Bridges (Move Records, 2003)
  • Wind Band Music 2002 (Ratmuse, 2002)
  • Wind Band Music 2001 (Ratmuse, 2001)
  • Das Bassetthorn (Mannheimer, 1997)
  • Hirt auf dem Felsen (Hanse Compagnie, 1995)
  • Blues for Sabine (EMI Classics, 1993)

SELECTED REVIEWS


“…much to admire in the accuracy and expression of the players, even more in the skill of Handsworth.”
—Elizabeth Silsbury, The Advertiser, December 13, 2015 (conductor of Adelaide Wind Orchestra, Concordia College)

“…rendered exquisitely with careful tone blending and subtle dynamics by Handsworth”
—Daniela Kaleva, The Australian Stage, August 6, 2012 (chamber music)

“… incredible suppleness and precision… An extraordinary concert performed by first-class interpreters…”
—Hans Jürgen Kugler, Badische Zeitung, April 26, 2010 (duo concert with Stefan Ammer)