Knowing the Score is a biopic about Australian conductor Simone Young, a visionary and inspiring figure who rose to the top of a male-dominated industry through talent, perseverance, sharp wit, and humor—all while wielding her baton.

From New York to London, Berlin to Vienna, she has left her mark on the world’s greatest stages, breaking barriers in the demanding realm of opera and classical music. Originally from Australia’s Manly Beach, she has accumulated countless “firsts” in her career—though she’s long since grown weary of the constant emphasis on her gender.

With fellow Aussie Cate Blanchett as executive producer,  Knowing the Score explores the remarkable journey of a conductor who has faced and overcome immense challenges, celebrating her past achievements, present influence, and the legacy she continues to build.

• Pioneering Achievements: In 1993, she became the first female conductor at the Vienna State Opera. In 2024, she made history as the first woman to conduct Wagner’s Ring Cycle at Germany’s Bayreuth Festival. en.wikipedia.org
• Leadership Roles: Young has held prominent positions, including Artistic Director of the Hamburg State Opera and Music Director of the Hamburg Philharmonic from 2005 to 2015. Since 2022, she has served as the Chief Conductor of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. operadeparis.fr
• Recent Highlights: In February 2025, Young led the Sydney Symphony Orchestra in a performance of Wagner’s Die Walküre at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, marking the opera’s return to Sydney after 27 years. theaustralian.com.au

‘Knowing the Score’: An Intimate Documentary

• Overview: Knowing the Score is a documentary that delves into Simone Young’s illustrious career, highlighting her journey in the classical music world. 
• Themes: The film addresses the challenges of achieving gender parity in classical music and underscores the broader struggle for artists to be valued, especially during times of crisis. autlookfilms.com
• Critical Reception: The documentary has been praised for its engaging portrayal of Young’s career, offering audiences an intimate look into her professional and personal milestones.