Ms Tessa Darby

 

Tessa Darby is a dedicated and personable clarinetist with over a decade of music and orchestral training, she has cultivated excellent skills in commitment, communication, and creative thinking, both individually and as part of a team.

Tessa is in her second year of pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, studying under the guidance of Frank Celata. She currently holds a clarinet position in the Sydney Youth Orchestra's Flagship ensemble, conducted by Stanley Dodds and previously held the position of Principal Clarinet with the Sydney Youth Orchestra Philharmonic. She also serves as Principal Clarinet with the Regional Youth Orchestra NSW. During her tenure with this orchestra, Tessa has engaged in masterclasses and tutorials with members of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Australian World Orchestra, and Opera Australia Orchestra, and will be touring to Europe in 2025.

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Her performance experience includes being a permanent member of the Clarence Valley Orchestra for six years, where she played alongside notable guest artists such as pianists Simon Tedeschi and David Helfgott. Additionally, she has performed with the Sydney Youth Orchestra and participated in various ensembles at the Sydney Conservatorium, including the Wind Symphony and Chamber Orchestra. Notably, she has played principal clarinet in the Conservatorium’s Symphony Orchestra and Clarinet Ensemble.

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In 2022, Tessa was honored as Clarence Valley Conservatorium’s Music Student of the Year and has been a multiple-time scholarship recipient. She has also led and performed in many ensembles at the Clarence Valley Conservatorium and Grafton area, such as the Concert Band, Sinfonia Orchestra, Clarinet Ensemble, and musical pit orchestra.

Tessa has gained extensive tutoring experience, having worked as a clarinet, saxophone and flute tutor at Arncliffe Public School, and as a casual tutor with Directions in Music and Music Partnership.