Orchestra Victoria

Explore Season 2025

The Richard Bonynge Orchestral Fellowship

Nurture musical talent by supporting a Fellow

RBOF v2

In recognition of Richard Bonynge's AC CBE outstanding service to ballet and opera, Orchestra Victoria and Lady Potter AC CMRI established The Richard Bonynge Orchestral Fellowship in 2018 to improve the preprofessional training for string musicians performing opera and ballet repertoire.

The program runs annually and affords our Fellows the experience of a working year in a professional orchestra. Your support enables our Fellows to receive the following invaluable experience:

  • Performing opera and ballet with our principal partners The Australian Ballet, Opera Australia, and Victorian Opera
  • Mentoring and specialist training with our world-class musicians
  • Exposure to regional touring and educational programs
  • Hone the craft of ensemble playing in our Chamber Music Series
  • Consultation and support by The Australian Ballet's world-leading Artistic Health team.

The cost to enable the program is $50,000 per annum, and we are seeking funding for two positions - $100,000.

We invite you to consider supporting this unique opportunity.


Fellowship Alumni

2019-2021 | Natasha Lakkis, Violin

2022 | Sandra Ionescu, Viola

2022 | Jackie Wang, Violin

2023 | Benjamin Saffir, Double Bass

2023 | Katrina Wang, Cello

2024 | Sophia Shaw, Violin

Orchestra Victoria is a not-for-profit organisation with DGR-1 status. All gifts of $2 and above are tax-deductible.
"This fellowship is a tribute to my dear friend Richard Bonynge, who has quietly achieved so much for orchestras globally. His efforts have masterly developed the specialist techniques required by orchestral musicians to meet the unique abilities to perform and support ballet and opera repertoire. This specialised skillset is crucial for young artists to master if they wish to lead a professional career as an orchestral musician." Lady Pot­ter AC CMRI

Support a Fellow

Enable young talent the opportunity to thrive. To discuss becoming a Fellowship supporter, please contact our Philanthropy Coordinator, Nathaniel via [email protected] or 0408 932 198.

Give today

Richard Bonynge Orchestral Fellowship Supporters

View all our supporters
2023 Supporters

Lady Potter AC CMRI
Mrs Margaret S Ross AM and Dr Ian Ross
Dr Alastair Jackson AM

2022 Supporters

Lady Potter AC CMRI
Mrs Margaret S Ross AM and Dr Ian Ross
Dr Alastair Jackson AM

2021 Supporters

Lady Potter AC CMRI

2019 Supporters

Lady Potter AC CMRI

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