We are WASO – Lily Protter
14.11.2019
Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of an organisation like WASO? We’ve decided to draw back the curtain and introduce you to some of our incredible admin team, without whom the concerts you enjoy would not be brought to life.
Name: Lily Protter
Job title: Community Engagement Coordinator
Time with WASO: 4.5 years
What are the main responsibilities of your role?
I coordinate our Community Outreach program, which reaches diverse communities and people who have historically not been included in the orchestra. We share music with different individuals and groups, including children in hospital, students and adults with disabilities, older adults in aged care and students in low socio economic areas.
What do you love most about working at WASO?
I love creating and delivering programs that enrich people’s lives and improve health and wellbeing. I love seeing the impact of our programs on participants. One highlight for me was a participatory creative music workshop program for older adults we ran earlier this year in partnership with Amana Living. It had been a dream of mine to create a program like this since I started at WASO, and it was so special to witness firsthand the impact on the participants. Music is a powerful thing, especially for older adults and people living with dementia.
Do you have a favourite WASO concert?
I loved Wynton Marsalis’ Swing Symphony at Perth Festival and also the Carnival of the Animals collaboration with Spare Parts Puppet Theatre last year. They were both amazing concerts.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
I like going to see live music and theatre, and I do some producing for independent theatre at the Fringe World Festival. I also enjoy swimming, reading and watching movies.
If you could choose to do any other job at WASO, what would it be?
Well the CEO obviously… only joking, I think Philanthropy could be fun. Getting to chat to people and hear about why they love WASO too!
What is your favourite movie?
I’m a sucker for a good musical. Moulin Rouge is definitely one of my favourites.
Do you have a go-to Karaoke song?
The Pina Colada Song. It is always good for a Friday afternoon sing along!
Favourite travel destination or somewhere you can’t wait to visit and why?
I have always wanted to go to Egypt. I studied History at uni, so I would love to see the pyramids and all the historical sites. Plus all the food and culture. It is definitely on my bucket list.
Learn more about our Community Engagement and Education programs here.
