Ezra Hersch named inaugural conducting fellow by Sydney Philharmonia Choirs

Sydney-based conductor Ezra Hersch has been named one of two inaugural recipients of the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs Conducting Fellowship, a new initiative supporting the development of emerging choral music leaders in Australia.

Hersch, along with fellow recipient Dr Michael Bradshaw, was selected from a competitive national pool of applicants to participate in a year-long immersive program with Australia’s leading choral organisation. As part of the Fellowship, Hersch will be involved in four major choral-orchestral productions presented by Sydney Philharmonia Choirs in 2025, including concerts at the Sydney Opera House. He will work alongside members of the Choirs’ artistic team and benefit from mentorship by leading Australian musicians and conductors.

The Fellowships are part of a broader series of new artistic development programs launched by Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, which also include the Emerging Composer Awards and a training partnership with the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. These initiatives are designed to support the next generation of conductors, composers, and choral leaders.

Matthew Beale, Chief Executive Officer of Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, described the programs as “a vital investment in the future of Australian choral music,” and said they aim to enrich both the individuals involved and the broader music ecosystem. Artistic and Music Director Brett Weymark OAM added that the organisation is committed to “ensuring Australian voices are heard at the highest level.”

Ezra Hersch is a graduate of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and has worked extensively as a conductor, rehearsal director, and vocal coach. He is a student at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, in the final year of his Bachelor of Music (Composition). In 2024 he co-founded Sydney-based, The Solis Ensemble, taking on the role of Conductor and Music Director; and became Choirmaster for The Great Synagogue Choir, for whom he has sung and conducted since 2022.

A former student of Emanuel School and chorister for the Emanuel Synagogue Choir, he continues his relationship with the Emanuel Choirs, in the role of accompanist and casual conductor. Ezra’s additional experience includes roles with Sydney Chamber Opera and MUSE (Sydney University Musical Theatre Society); in addition to many years of choral experience, performing with Sydney Chamber Choir, Gondwana Chorale, Conservatorium Chamber Choir, The Song Company and Sydney Children’s Choir.

The Sydney Philharmonia Choirs Fellowships reflect the organisation’s role as one of only eight resident companies of the Sydney Opera House and reaffirm its commitment to artistic innovation and education.

For more on Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, see: sydneyphilharmonia.com.au/