Henry South

Henry South is an experienced conductor, double bass player, teacher and Director of Music at St Mary MacKillop College in Canberra. Originally from Adelaide, Henry studied double bass with David Schilling and Young-Hee Chan completing a Bachelor of Music at the Elder Conservatorium. He has performed with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, the Australian Youth Orchestra, The Adelaide Art Orchestra, the Australian National Academy of Music and most recently the National Capital Orchestra, where he holds the position of principal double bass. In 2023, Henry toured Spain and Portugal, performing with the Australian Strings Association Chamber Orchestra, as principal double bass. Henry also enjoys playing the cello and viola, and has been involved in local chamber ensembles throughout the Canberra region.

Henry started at Music for Canberra as Assistant Conductor of Canberra Youth Orchestra in 2024. He is an experienced conductor of school and community ensembles having worked with many young musicians to develop their skills and foster a sense of enjoyment in ensemble playing. Henry has conducted string ensembles, orchestras and choirs in Adelaide and Canberra.

As a teacher, Henry believes that all children should be able to access quality music education. He is passionate about sharing the love of string playing with his students, helping them to achieve their goals and to develop a life-long appreciation of music. When not making music, Henry enjoys spending time in the garden or running and plans on completing his first marathon in 2025. Henry also holds a Graduate Diploma in Education, a Diploma in Languages (Italian) and an MBA from the University of Adelaide.