Robert Smith – Tutti Second Violin
Tell us about your musical journey that has led you to being appointed to the Second Violin section of the SSO.
My first time playing in a full-sized orchestra was on an SSO Playerlink program when I was around 11 years old. I remember how nervous I was, but ended up having so much fun! After that my parents decided to start making the 4 hour round trip to Brisbane every Saturday to participate in the Young Conservatorium programs with my siblings. These programs gave me some incredible opportunities, not only in orchestral and chamber experience, but also solo performances.
Towards the end of high school and into university I started participating in Australian Youth Orchestra programs which have undoubtedly had the biggest impact on my development and interest in orchestral performing. Through the AYO I’ve performed across Australia and Europe, performed with high profile artists and prepared challenging and diverse programs, setting me up for success in professional work.
Of course I have to mention my amazing violin teacher, Michele Walsh, who is not only the kindest and most patient person I’ve ever met, but is always looking for unique ways for her students to become the best violinist they can be. She knew that I wanted a career in an orchestra and gave me so many opportunities in the university orchestras and supported my early professional experiences in Ensemble Q, Camerata - Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra and Southern Cross Soloists.
When I moved to Sydney in late 2022, I did a casual audition and have been incredibly lucky to be included since!
You are one of the youngest members of the Orchestra. What is an opportunity or experience that helped you achieve such an impressive appointment at a young age?
I remember the first time I played in the Australian Youth Orchestra and just knew that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. The audition process was a fantastic way for me to get a small taste for what professional auditions would be like - I took these auditions very seriously as a way for me to practice for the real thing!
How do you like to keep learning and growing as a musician?
I really enjoy exploring new works every week in the SSO. Not just learning my own parts, but really engaging with the music, such as going over the scores, focusing on the players that have the melody and supported them with my own sound.
I’ve also been enjoying performing in chamber music concerts, notably the Marrickville Virtuosi series that my partner has created. Performing with international artists in these programs is exciting and so rewarding!
You had the opportunity to perform with good friend of the Orchestra, William Barton, in New York earlier this year. Tell us what it was like to represent Australia on an international stage.
I’ve performed with William Barton many times and it is always an enjoyable experience made only better by being able to showcase some of his works at the Met amongst such a distinguished crowd.
What is your favourite thing about living in Sydney as someone who didn’t grow up here?
I always loved the beach when growing up in the Tweed, but Sydney beaches (particularly the calmer ones) are on another level!
Curate a playlist of your top 3 pieces to listen to.
Strauss Ein Heldenleben
Korngold Violin Concerto
Strauss Alpine Symphony
Where might we find you if you aren’t performing or practicing?
As I mentioned before, I love the beach, so can be found there a lot. I also love to go to my favourite cafes around Marrickville. You can also find me on the farm near Mudgee looking after animals and gardening.
What is a lesser known, random fact about you?
You wouldn’t know it from my name, but I’m actually half Italian!