Ulumbarra Foundation | Building the Future of Music in Bendigo
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30 Apr Building the Future of Music in Bendigo

Posted at 09:16h in Uncategorized by

The Ulumbarra Foundation is proud to partner with Bendigo Youth Music (BYM) in a multi-year collaboration to build a sustainable future for the Bendigo Youth Orchestra.

Since the Foundation provided seed funding for the orchestra’s inaugural Autumn Camp in 2024, the program has gone from strength to strength. Now in its third year, the 2026 Autumn Camp brought musicians together for three days of intensive rehearsals, skills development and collaboration—culminating in a vibrant final concert at the Ulumbarra Theatre.

Under the direction of Bendigo Symphony Orchestra conductor Luke Severn, the orchestra performed major works including Scheherazade and Jupiter from The Planets. Luke’s energy and leadership challenged players to lift their performance to a new level, while smaller chamber ensembles gave each section the chance to shine before a powerful full ensemble finale.

Just as importantly, the camp created a space for connection. Participants built friendships, gained confidence, and experienced the joy of making music together—many for the first time. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of tutors and staff ensured every participant felt supported.

The Foundation is now helping BYM to take the next step: seed funding for a part-time Orchestra Manager. This role will strengthen student support, improve communication with families, and—critically—grow enrolments to a level where the program becomes self-sustaining.

“This is a clear example of how an early investment in talented young musicians can shift a short-term project to long-term sustainable impact,” said Ulumbarra Foundation Chair Robin Bragg.

Bendigo Youth Music is also taking another important step forward, with the orchestra moving to weekly rehearsals. This shift will deepen musical development, and provide a stable foundation for long-term growth. New players are always welcome: email here.