Examiner 1264

BMus, ASCM

Cecilia Bersee studied violin at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music with Chris Kimber and Harry Curby, earning a bachelor of music majoring in performance. During this time, she was the strings winner of the ABC Instrumental and Vocal Competition (Schools Division) and performed as a soloist with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

Mrs Bersee has played professionally with every major orchestra in Sydney, including the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, the Australian Chamber Orchestra and, for over 20 years, the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra. She was also a member of the contemporary music group Magpipe Musicians, which toured New South Wales extensively and recorded many new compositions under the directorship of Vincent Plush.

As well as performing, Mrs Bersee has taught violin in Sydney schools and in her own studio. She promotes excellence in string teaching by organising masterclasses and presentations by leading string pedagogues. Through her work with the Australian Strings Association (NSW), Mrs Bersee helps to stage music festivals and to provide online resources for regional music teachers.

Positions held

President – Australian Strings Association (NSW)