In 2026 we are excited to welcome 13 aspiring instrumentalists to take part in our Fellowship program. 

They will experience intensive training, including masterclasses with world-renowned artists, dedicated mentorship from Sydney Symphony musicians and performance opportunities across a diverse range of musical styles. Fellows will take part in chamber and orchestral performances, from mainstage concerts to Learning & Engagement activities and regional programs.

And this year we also welcome four Conducting Fellows for the first time, providing a crucial stepping stone on their path towards a professional career.

We extend a special thank you to our Presenting Partner, Coxswain Alliance, for supporting the 2026 Fellowship program.

Hailing from the deep south of Aotearoa New Zealand, Reuben Brown (Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, Ngāti Rongomaiwahine, Rongowhakaata) was the 2025 New Zealand Assistant Conductor in Residence with the Auckland Philharmonia. In this role, he made his debut with the Philharmonia and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and assisted both visiting and resident conductors. In 2026, Reuben continues to assist Sydney Symphony Orchestra (SSO) Chief Conductor Simone Young and will conduct the SSO Fellows in May. Committed to the development of young musical talent in Aotearoa, he leads the 2026 NZ Secondary Schools’ Symphony Orchestra, both to fuel his own passion and to encourage theirs.

Reuben debuted with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) in 2023 with Christmas Brass at Te Papa Museum. Following this, he assisted NZSO Artistic Advisor and Principal Conductor Gemma New on multiple programmes. As a 2022–2024 NZSO Conducting Fellow, Reuben was mentored by Music Director Emeritus James Judd and Principal Conductor-in-Residence Hamish McKeich, alongside international conductors André de Ridder and Miguel Harth-Bedoya. He recorded four Kiwi works for the NZSO/CANZ Composer Workshops, and has conducted the NZSO National Youth Orchestra, and the NZSO’s Tamariki Time and Open Doors touring concerts.

One of Aotearoa’s emerging talents, Reuben was one of 12 artists selected to perform alongside international luminaries in the Michael Hill International Violin Competition’s 2025 Whakatipu Music Festival. Here, Reuben received coaching from leading choral conductor, Dr. Karen Grylls, whilst working with choirs and small ensembles.

As a performer, Reuben plays euphonium with the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band and Wellington Brass Band - Aotearoa’s premier brass band - where he is also Associate Musical Director. He recently conducted the band at the 2026 National Brass Band Championships to a podium finish. As a previous Musical Director for the National Secondary Schools’ Development Brass Band, he is a proponent for young brass talent.

An honours graduate of Te Kōkī – New Zealand School of Music, Reuben co-founded Wellington’s Gallery Orchestra, performing in unique collaborations. In 2023, he conducted the ensemble for a forthcoming album with Kiwi artist Arjuna Oakes. Other conducting engagements include the Auckland Symphony Orchestra, Manawatū Sinfonia, Virtuoso Strings Orchestra, St Kilda Brass Band, Te Kōkī ensembles, and numerous Wellington-based groups.