During Mali’s time at Bellingen Highschool and with the BYO, she was renowned for her impressive academic accolades, always demonstrating exceptional dedication and achievement in her studies. She was and is deeply socially conscious, actively engaging in initiatives that promoted community well-being and environmental sustainability. As a talented cellist with the BYO, Mali has captivated audiences with her musical prowess and passion. She continues to do so as she finds her way in Sydney, engaging in multiple creative projects as she juggles the demands of her university studies.
When did you play with the BYO?
I played in the BYO from 2016-2021.
What instrument(s) do you play?
During my school days, I played the cello, guitar, and sang.
Where can we find you now?
I am currently in my 3rd year of law school in Sydney. I am the lead singer in a band called Seaglass and I am now running a private education business from my Artists Community in Newtown.
What was your favorite memorable moment with the orchestra?
It makes me misty-eyed to think of it. BYO is a really special institution and there are so many moments that meant so much to me. I think I’ll have to go with our performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture with real cannons.
What is on your playlist this week?
This week I am playing the album ‘Songs’ by Adrienne Lenker. This album has had a big impact on me artistically, and I take a lot of inspiration from Lenker and her poetry. The song ‘My Angel’ is my favorite from the album, not especially for the intricacies of the guitar but for the touching emotion of its delivery.
What was the best thing you took away from the BYO?
BYO has made me the musician I am today. The ways in which I have been influenced by the teachers and the environment are innumerable. The best thing, though, was probably the friendships. Many students I played with then have moved to Sydney with me and work alongside me in our classical education today. While it would be short-sighted not to mention the profound impact of the varied mentors the BYO brings in, such as the ACO and Acacia String Quartet, it has actually been the trust I was given that stands out. Having mentors believe in you and trust you to represent them to the community is so instrumental in developing passion and musical self-belief.
We have lots of new players every year… do you have any advice for our young players?
Sometimes music can feel like an uphill battle, especially in school. After a full day, the first thing you want to do isn’t always to sit down and focus for another two hours. And gosh, I remember being told this and scoffing, but places like BYO don’t come every day. You will talk to other young people in the years to come about BYO, and they’ll look at you with a jealous bereavement that you won’t quite understand. But then you’ll realize what a blessing, what a gift a place like BYO is, and you’ll be filled with gratitude that you got to experience it. BYO, the teachers, friends, and music will build skills you’ll use your whole life. Have fun, it flies past, and play with joy.
What essential creative experience should we be adding to our ‘to do’ list this year?
BYO camps and intensives are such a great opportunity for students to bond and fall in love with their instruments. Some of the most inspiring moments for me were having older mentors visit to share their knowledge post-school.
If you could travel to one place in 2024… where would it be?
I know this sounds lame, but honestly, it’s true… Bellingen. It’ll be my answer every time. With the climate catastrophe the way it is, I can’t in good conscience fly on a plane, so my most anticipated destination is back home to see my family and community.
