Maddison embarked on her classical music journey when she decided to choose the double bass, an instrument nearly twice her size, in her school’s music program—much to the surprise of her parents. She has recently completed her Bachelor of Music at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music in 2024 studying with Emma Sullivan and Steve Reeves and was awarded the Corinna d’Hage Mayer scholarship in 2022 and 2023. During her time at the conservatorium, Maddison began learning the viola da gamba with Laura Vaughan, deepening her appreciation for historical performance and further enriching her broad musical interests.
Maddison has a deep passion for both chamber and orchestral playing, relishing the dynamic interplay and expressive depth of each. A recent highlight was a month-long regional tour in 2024 with the Cologne Chamber Philharmonia, performing as part of a sextet for audiences, many of whom were experiencing live classical music for the first time.
Her love for orchestral music blossomed through her involvement with the Australian Youth Orchestra (AYO), and she has performed in various programs since 2021. Maddison has been a casual member of Orchestra Victoria since 2024 and has gained extensive freelance experience performing with orchestras across Melbourne, including playing in the 2023 Wagner Ring Cycle in Bendigo with Melbourne Opera. She also served as Principal Bass of the University of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra from 2023 to 2024, leading the section during the orchestra's international tour to Singapore and Malaysia.
Having been a frequent guest musician at ANAM throughout 2024, Maddison is pleased to be a first-year musician at ANAM in 2025 under Damien Eckersley.
FROM: VIC. Lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people.
Photo by Pia Johnson