She will lead the organisation after Carol Main, who had been director since 1984, stepped down
Live Music Now Scotland, one of the country’s leading music charities working in schools, hospitals, care homes and hospices, has announced the appointment of Judith Anderson as its new CEO.
She will lead the organisation after Carol Main, who had been director since its foundation in 1984, stepped down.
Judith will take the charity into its next phase, bringing her extensive experience in both music and the wider arts sectors.
The group said she has a proven track record of managing charitable arts organisations with a strong social purpose.
The appointment coincides with the organisation receiving funding from both Creative Scotland’s Multi-Year Funding and the award of £150,000 from the Elizabeth Lornie’s Charitable Trust.
This significant milestone will enable Live Music Now Scotland to continue its mission of making high-quality live music accessible to all, especially those who normally wouldn’t have access to it.
Carol Main, who led the organisation since it was founded in Edinburgh in 1984, said: “After 40 years working with Live Music Now Scotland, building it from Yehudi Menuhin’s request to start his unique scheme in Scotland into a thriving organisation which puts on over 750 events throughout the country each year, while simultaneously supporting 135 musicians, it’s now time for me to take a step back.
“In Judith’s appointment, I am confident that our exceptional early career artists and wide range of audiences will all continue to be supported. I honestly couldn’t have wished for anyone more suited to the role of taking Live Music Now Scotland into its next 40 years”.
Amanda Forsyth, chair of the Board of Trustees, added: "The board is absolutely delighted to have secured Judith for the role of chief executive of Live Music Now Scotland. Her wide-ranging experience in the arts in Scotland will stand us in good stead as we face the challenges ahead, and we look forward to working with her."
Judith joins Live Music Now Scotland from the position of head of development and operations at Starcatchers, Scotland's national arts and early years organisation.
Her leadership experience spans multiple sectors, working collaboratively to achieve social impact through the arts. She has worked with many of Scotland’s leading classical, folk, and contemporary musicians, creating new performances and tours, as well as collaborating with music organisations such as Lammermuir Festival, Mr McFall’s Chamber, and Scottish Ensemble.
A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music and an avid saxophonist, Judith has long supported musicians at all stages of their professional development. She has also served as a guest lecturer in Professional Skills at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, further cementing her deep commitment to the growth of both artists and arts organisations.
She said: “I’m thrilled and honoured to step into the role of chief executive for Live Music Now Scotland.
“It’s a privilege to join an organisation with such an inspiring legacy, especially as we celebrate 40 years under the direction of Carol Main, our outgoing director. I’m excited about the challenges ahead and look forward to working with exceptional musicians and partners to ensure that great live music experiences continue to connect with people in ways that are inclusive, meaningful and joyful.”
