The ABC is pleased to announce that Philip Noyce will become the new Head of ABC Classic and ABC Jazz.
Philip brings over 15 years of experience in the classical and jazz music industries. He joins ABC from Classic FM, the UK’s most popular classical music station. There, he was Managing Editor and helped shape a service that reaches more than 4.7 million listeners each week.
Philip has also served as a judge for the Royal Philharmonic Society Awards and the Royal Television Society Awards. He is a skilled cellist and the author of several well-regarded classical music guides for children.
Philip said, “It’s a fantastic moment to join the ABC, especially as it invests in two iconic music networks: Classic and Jazz. Leading these stations is an incredible opportunity and a real honour. I look forward to creating programming that is distinctive, engaging, and truly focused on the audience.
“With ABC Classic celebrating its 50th anniversary next year, there is a great legacy to honour and many exciting new chapters ahead. I’m excited to be part of this journey.
“I also look forward to building new creative partnerships across Australia and supporting everything that makes the classical and jazz scenes so vibrant. I can’t wait to begin.”
Philip joins a strengthened leadership team that includes Sascha Kelly, the recently appointed Content Director. Sascha has a long career in Australia’s classical music scene, including senior roles with Musica Viva. She has already brought a renewed focus on editorial quality in programming and presentation.
Together, Philip and Sascha bring complementary skills that will help guide a new chapter for ABC Classic and ABC Jazz.
With ABC Classic marking its 50th anniversary in 2026, this is a special chance to celebrate its history and increase its impact on Australian audiences.
ABC Director of Audio, Ben Latimer, said, “Philip brings deep knowledge of the audience and the art form, along with strong creative energy. He will help lead ABC Classic and ABC Jazz into their next chapter.
“With the 50th anniversary of ABC Classic coming up, we have a rare chance to honour its legacy and set a new creative direction. I’m excited to welcome Philip to ABC. Together with Sascha and our wider leadership team, I am confident we are building the right foundation for a bright future for ABC Classic and Jazz.”
Philip will join ABC in the coming months as part of the ABC Audio leadership team. He will report directly to the Director of Audio.
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