“I realised the Upbeat program would be a great opportunity for me this year…and will be a fantastic way for me to gain some professional performance experience in a supportive and understanding environment…The unconducted nature of Camerata gives it the intimate feel of a chamber ensemble, with the density of sound and dynamic variety of an orchestra. I am looking forward to being part of the ensemble, and I think the collaborative aspect of the group will be of great benefit to my development as a musician.”

Meet Michael Gibson, one of Camerata’s 2024 Upbeat artists! 

Michael is a Brisbane born and raised cellist, who was initially inspired to play the violin by his mother, a violin and viola teacher. After a few lessons, he realised the violin was not for him, and progressively found a passion for cello, which led him to study a Bachelor at the Queensland Conservatorium, followed by a year of studies in Hamburg, Germany. 

Michael remembers having to choose a piece for his school concerto, and spending hours listening to different cello concerti. Despite them being beyond his ability at the time, it opened his eyes on what could be done with a cello. He says: “still today, I find the most rewarding part about being a musician is that it is simultaneously both a craft and an artform. One must have both a level of creativity and ingenuity to find something new in a piece, but also the consistency and technical ability to be able to produce something beautiful every time.” 

Michael had heard of the Upbeat program through several of his friends, who have been part of the program in the past. He realised the program would be a great opportunity for him, as he is looking to re-establish himself in the Brisbane music community after studying overseas, and wants to gain professional performance experience in a supportive and understanding environment. 

He is looking forward to playing with the ensemble and believes the collaborative aspect of the group will be of great development for him as a musician. He says: “I believe this program will give me both support and direction in my career. It will help me further develop the skills I need to become a better orchestral and chamber musician, and will allow me to fully immerse myself in the Brisbane freelance scene.”  

Fun fact: one of Michael’s favourite piece is Verklärte Nacht by Arnold Schönberg. There is a lot of complexity in his music, and Michael enjoys discovering something new every time he hears it or plays it. He also enjoys playing Haydn, Beethoven and Mozart. He says “they compose with absolute purity and transparency, however these works are often the most difficult and exposing to play!”  

Our Upbeat program is designed to foster emerging artists through mentoring from our Artistic Associates, and rehearsals and performance opportunities to gain valuable industry insight and experience.? 

We are delighted to welcome Michael as part of Camerata’s Upbeat program. He will be joining us on Camerata & Alex Raineri: Beethoven for our Toowoomba and Brisbane performances.