Music score for Monash University
Fabian Russell
One of Australia’s leading classical musicians, Fabian Russell, has been appointed to the post of Principal Conductor of the Monash Academy Orchestra (MAO) adding to Monash University’s rich cultural community.
Founded in 2007, MAO has quickly established itself as one of the finest institutionally based training orchestras in the country.
The Orchestra provides opportunities for students of Monash University to perform large-scale orchestral music to the highest standard as well as working alongside world-class soloists and mentors.
Dr Peter Tregear, Executive Director, Academy of Performing Arts, Monash University said this appointment was a major coup for the University.
“There could not be a finer musician to help us build upon MAO’s success over the past five years. If Fabian’s track record is any guide, we have some stupendous years of music-making ahead of us,” said Dr Tregear.
Fabian Russell will commence his new role in January 2012, succeeding Jeffrey Crellin, who brought to the orchestra extensive experience as both a conductor and principal oboist from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
Robert Burke, Head of the School of Music said through Jeffrey Crellin’s efforts, the orchestral course has become a great strength of Monash University’s cultural program and this new appointment ensures that it remains a major reason for students to make and study music.
“I am delighted that a musician of such experience and accomplishment will be working with the Academy and School of Music. We look forward to sharing the results of our orchestral program with the wider community,” said Mr Burke.
Sydney-born Russell has a career spanning twenty-five years in the Australian classical music industry including roles as a conductor, orchestral musician, artistic director, soloist and teacher.
Throughout his extensive career as an orchestral musician, Mr Russell has performed with every Australian professional orchestra, establishing an international reputation as one of the finest brass musicians of his generation.
Mr Russell’s previous roles include founder of The Orchestra Project – the Melbourne-based training orchestra comprised of Australia’s finest young musicians; Director of Australian Chamber Brass – Australia’s pre-eminent professional brass ensemble; and Artistic Director of the Melbourne Youth Orchestra.
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Ali Webb, Senior Media Officer, Monash Media & Communications, 03 9903 4841 / 0439 013 951 / ali.webb@monash.edu