Hi, I’m Susan. I design transformative workplace training for classical music organisations—tailored for musicians, managers, and leaders who want change that actually works.
My approach is grounded in two core values: safety and kindness. Because when people feel safe and seen, they communicate more clearly, collaborate more effectively, and lead with integrity.
I focus on the people and process challenges that quietly erode culture: unclear feedback, poor communication, persistent conflict, and opaque decision-making. These aren’t just operational issues—they’re pressure points that impact trust, retention, and wellbeing.
With lived experience as a musician and deep expertise in trauma-informed and neuroinclusive practice, I create training that’s practical, evidence-based, and relevant. No corporate fluff—just tools that honour the complexity of orchestral life.
My workshops equip your whole team—on stage and off—with strategies that build safer, kinder, and more resilient workplace cultures. Ones that hold people accountable and hold space for them to thrive.
"Susan embodies the tireless energy of the entrepreneur, the inexhaustible creativity of the artist, and a goodness that is rare and beautiful."
"It's funny that a subject with "management and enterprise" in its title has led me to so many realisations about my own creative practice, chiefly that it's mine and I can use it to do amazing things. Thank you for making a safe space to be vulnerable because I don't think I've been in an environment quite like it at university outside my singing lessons."
"You have no idea how much 'around the table' conversation that Susan's session created with the participants. It was exactly what one of the group needed to make a decision on their future with music. After much conversation following the session, they have decided that they will follow music as a career and do what THEY want to do, not what is the safest path."
"Thank you for unlocking the passion and drive that were hidden under insecurities and walls that I had unconsciously built around me."
"Your work with the Royal Northern College of Music students has been so important for us, and you have left them with much clearer ideas of who they want to be as artists, and how to take hold of their own career and journey."
"I left Susan’s summit inspired to question all the projects and ideas I had in front of me. I kept some and I chucked some. I have given myself the challenge of being more inclusive of cultural diversity and when developing products, especially for families and education. I’m committed to ensuring activities within the Learning and Engagement program actually reflect the cultures that make up our present day community."
"Susan has provided invaluable advice on our program design and delivered much of the content. Our young artists have greatly benefitted from working with her, she has also been an eloquent and passionate advocate for the program when working with our staff and meeting with our program donors. Susan’s expertise as a musician, entrepreneur, educator and innovator ensures that the program aligns with our organisational priorities and supports our artists to thrive on and beyond the stage."
"I wouldn’t have felt the confidence or drive to make a change without your advice and support, and I’m endlessly grateful to you for that. You have such a supportive, energising, caring nature, and I really felt that and continue to feel that as I’m pondering my options!!"