MSE is built on a simple belief: that young musicians rise to the level of the music they're given to play.
Our Story
Since 1985, Melbourne String Ensemble has given young string musicians a place to grow - not just as players, but as artists. What began as a small community initiative has become one of Melbourne's most respected youth string programs, with alumni now performing in professional orchestras across Australia and around the world.
MSE has grown from a single ensemble into a full pathway of five ensembles, taking students from their first ensemble experience through to advanced chamber and orchestral playing. Our students perform serious, substantial repertoire - the same works professional string players return to throughout their careers - under the guidance of directors who are themselves working professional musicians and educators.
Along the way, MSE has toured internationally 17 times, built a strong partnership with Germany's Junges Kammerorchester Stuttgart (JuKO), hosted and performed with groups such as the Tallinn International Youth orchestra, Leipzig Youth Symphony Orchestra and Zurich Youth Sinfonie Orchester, as well as launching The Seasons Project - a commissioning initiative that has brought new orchestral works by First Nations composers to audiences in Australia and Europe.
MSE is entirely powered by a committee of parents and alumni who volunteer their time because they believe in what this organisation does for young musicians. We are ever grateful for our community.
Photo credit: James HenryIn 2026, we celebrate forty years of MSE with a special Anniversary Concert with a return to the Melbourne Recital Centre - a chance to bring together current students, alumni, and the families and directors who have shaped this community since 1985.
We look forward to another forty years of music making.
Our Directors
Our ensembles are led by professional musicians and educators - Fintan Murphy, Danielle Arcaro, Rohan Mack, and Naomi Durston - who bring decades of performing and teaching experience into the rehearsal room, and who are personally committed to developing each student as both a musician and a collaborator.
Each director brings their own distinct approach and musical background, shaping the character of the ensemble they lead while preparing students for further growth.
Our People
MSE is led by a committee of volunteer parents of current students and alumni.
Every decision about MSE's direction is made by people committed to their children’s continuing musical education - however that may enrich their lives and wherever that may lead.
Be Part of the Next Forty Years
Whether you're a family considering an audition, an alum we've lost touch with, or someone who'd like to support the next generation of Melbourne's string musicians, we'd love to hear from you.