Renowned expert in 17th- and 18th-century European music, Donald Nicolson, has been appointed the new Music Director of Genesis Baroque.
Nicolson earned his PhD in Musicology from the University of Melbourne in 2018. He currently leads the Early Music Studio at the university and is an active performer in Australia’s early music scene. His extensive experience includes work with Genesis Baroque, Van Diemen’s Band, Pinchgut Opera, Latitude 37, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
Beyond historically informed performance, Nicolson is a member of Anja & Zlatna, a group that blends Balkan folk music with 17th-century improvisation. He also performs in Bronzewing, a baroque-electronic duo with violist Katie Yap. His 2022 composition Spirals, commissioned by Van Diemen’s Band, toured Australia and New Zealand, drawing inspiration from 17th-century Italy and video game music.
Genesis Baroque founder and Artistic Director Jen Kirsner welcomed Nicolson’s appointment, stating, “It’s a boon for Genesis to be able to secure Donald as our next principal music director. Donald is respected Australia-wide and brings critical international experience and tremendous imagination to the role.”
In 2025, Genesis Baroque will collaborate with the Australian Boys Choir and the Choir of Trinity College (Melbourne) for performances of Bach and Vivaldi. The ensemble will also present recitals featuring soprano Sara Macliver as part of its Genesis Chamber Series.
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