We are delighted to announce that Rory Smith, Clare Cooney and Alison Smith O’Connell have joined Camerata as Artistic Associates! We could not be more excited to welcome such great musicians and people as artistic associates of Camerata.

As Artistic Associates, players contribute to the strategic direction of Camerata, are integral to the process of programming the season of works and provide performance and training opportunities for the next generation of Queensland artists through the Upbeat program. 

Artistic Director and leader Brendan Joyce says, “It really is wonderful to be able to increase the size of the core ensemble in this way. When Camerata first started in 1987, it quickly became a point of departure for many young and emerging professionals to launch careers or advanced studies abroad. 

“It’s rather exciting to think that our modestly sized organisation has grown in scope and activity and maintains a reputation for high standard so much so that it has become a point of attraction for players local players, as well as those from other places, or for the alumni of its own emerging artists program. 

“For the unconducted orchestra, it takes players who are willing to play with a fair degree of authority, while also being sensitive to the other colleagues, and there’s also the opportunity to put ideas forward and even to fight for them now and then.   

Rory, Clare, and Alison have shown they understand these aspects of unconducted chamber orchestra playing as well as knowing that the group is only as good as its least prepared or committed member. There’s no hiding in such a small orchestra.” 

“I have loved working with camerata for the past 4 years and I feel incredibly fortunate to join this fantastic ensemble as an artistic associate this year!” (Rory, cello). 

”I feel so incredibly excited and privileged to be joining Camerata as an artistic associate. Having the opportunity to work with Camerata, an orchestra that I adore playing with and that offers me such opportunity to grow as a violinist is honestly wonderful. There is no better feeling than playing in an unconducted chamber orchestra, where everyone is taking responsibility and contributing to the ensemble!” (Clare, violin). 

“Over the years of playing as a guest artist with Camerata, I always felt welcome and appreciated. But becoming an Artistic Associate has made me feel like I’m really part of the family now. It’s a pretty great little family and I’m very proud of it.” (Alison Smith O’Connell, cello). 

Camerata keeps growing thanks to our audiences, donors, and sponsors, and we are very proud and excited to offer such opportunities to these talented artists.