In 2020, when the performing world came to a standstill during the Covid Pandemic, I used the time to fulfill a lifelong goal and learn how to code. After the birth of my daughter in 2022, I decided to reduce my concert schedule drastically, and - alongside parenting - committed to a Full-Stack Software Engineering Bootcamp. It opened up the possibility for a significant career change, and in 2025, when my Music Director contract with Symphony Nova Scotia ended, I accepted a fulltime position as a Software Development Engineer Apprentice with Amazon.
Outside of my job, I have a digital agency called Scordatura, which builds digital tools for artists and audiences. I also take on occasional web development contracts, whenever my schedule allows, and publish a blog which examines the arts sector, performance culture, and arts-related tech topics.
In 2025 I launched my first digital product, Opus 1.0, the first Notion template designed for professional performing artists. 2026 will see the launch of a Musical Leadership Online Learning Platform, Scordatura Learning, and I am in the planning stages of Scordatura's first mobile app.
As someone who has effected a radical career-change in my mid-40s, whilst being mum to a toddler, I am a staunch supporter of other artists who want to open themselves to options beyond their performing career. I have been invited on numerous podcasts and Radio broadcasts to speak about my decision to end a successful performing career, and the challenges and rewards of retraining in mid-life. My mission as a technologist is to build tools for the arts that can help it navigate the political and funding challenges it faces in the 21st century, and help artists and arts organisations maintain their independence and creativity.