Panagiotis Karamanos, also known as Pani, developed a passion for music at an early age, which led him to pursue formal studies in music teaching and conducting.
His musical journey began at the Conservatorium of Music, where he attended the Conservatorium High School starting in Year 7 in 2009. After graduating from the Conservatorium High School he began his Bachelor of Music Education in 2015 and graduated in 2018. He has recently completed his Master’s degree in conducting under the guidance of Dr Elizabeth Scott at the end of 2025.
In 2016, Panagiotis founded the Modést Orchestra comprised at the time of University students, aiming to create a collaborative and stress-free environment focused on the joy of making music. Over the years, the Modést Orchestra has grown and matured to expand its roster to include professional musicians from various parts of Sydney. This has enabled the orchestra to perform significant works, including The Planets and Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony.
Panagiotis has also been active in the Australian music scene, contributing to various projects and performances that highlight contemporary compositions and sound art. He has worked with various university ensembles at the University of Sydney and UNSW, conducted an Opera Gala concert with Pacific Opera, and collaborated with emerging artists, providing performance opportunities for young concerto soloists and engaging with established Australian composers on significant projects in both Sydney and Melbourne.
As a conductor, Panagiotis also has a strong background in musical theatre, having led musical productions of The Addams Family, Chicago and Carrie. Most recently, he served as an assistant conductor for the combined NIDA and Conservatorium Opera Project in 2024 and was the assistant conductor for their production of Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld in 2025.
As a music educator, Panagiotis works extensively with young musicians through orchestral camps, intensive ensemble programs, and classroom teaching. He is also the conductor of Symphonic Encounters, an educational concert series for primary and secondary schools.