The partnership between Musica Viva Australia (MVA), the nation’s biggest provider of music education and BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), the largest exporter of seaborne metallurgical coal, began in 2006.
At that time a primary school teacher wanted to offer quality music education to her students, but was hampered by a lack of resources in Central Queensland. When she approached the largest employer in the area BMA for funding it led to a partnership between MVA and BMA that enabled the Musica Viva In Schools program to reach a further 11 schools in the Blackwater and Emerald area of Central Queensland over the following three years.
In 2009, MVA asked BMA to increase their support which meant the Musica Viva In School program could be delivered across the entire Central Queensland region, including Mackay where many BMA families live.
This is a partnership based on shared values. MVA is dedicated to bringing music education to every Australian student, regardless of socio-economic background or geographic location. At the same time, BMA has established a program to enhance the livability of the communities in which it works.
The partnership has been expanded to a triennial agreement, enabling Musica Viva In Schools to better impact students, teachers and schools and to achieve lasting results. MVA is able to demonstrate the direct community benefits of the program to attract additional support.
Coming from such different sectors, both partners have made significant attempts to understand each other’s business cultures. Just as MVA staff members have travelled to Central Queensland to experience the unique conditions of mining workers, BMA staff members attend Musica Viva concerts to appreciate the importance of and enjoy live music.
With this partnership, Musica Viva Australia has been able to deliver its quality music education to regional areas, while BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance has been able to build lasting skills and creativity in its local community.
Benefits to the business
- Demonstration of commitment to supporting communities in the Bowen Basin
- Enhanced desirability of the area for prospective employees
- Partnership acknowledgment in collateral and online
Benefits to the arts organisation
- Funding to expand the program into Central Queensland
- Marketing and publicity training
Outcomes for regional communities
- Access to an award-winning music education program as taught in metropolitan schools
- Support for local teachers, training them to teach musical concepts in a dynamic and engaging manner
- A free community concert showcasing Musica Viva musicians
“Best music lessons I’ve ever taught! All teachers were amazed with the students’ response. They were completely involved. All enjoyed it immensely!”
Music and classroom teachers, Capella State School