Melissa Buddle’s musical journey began at just six years old when she picked up a violin in year one as part of her primary school’s instrumental music program. From her first group lessons, the violin set Melissa on a path that would define both her life and career, finding mentors and opportunities that would eventually lead her to her newest role as Concertmaster with Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra.
Through her teenage years, Melissa honed her skills with the Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra, eventually serving as co-concertmaster of the Youth Symphony. After finishing school, she moved to Brisbane to study a Bachelor of Music (Honours) in Violin Performance at the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University.
Today, Melissa balances performing with teaching violin, viola and cello at Immanuel Lutheran College while undertaking a Master of Secondary Teaching. Now back on the Sunshine Coast, she continues to contribute to the musical community that supported her journey, and in 2026, she takes on the role of Concertmaster with the SCSO, leading the string section. Here she shares her remarkable musical story.
Beyond technique, what are some key benefits of learning a string instrument?
Music supports coordination and fine motor skills, while also strengthening memory, focus, language development and overall brain function. Learning music also develops transferable life skills such as organisation, communication, problem solving and time management. My youth orchestra conductor, Chelsey Eunson, often said musicians are the best people because we are trained to listen to each other and understand our place within a group. Through constant listening and collaboration, teamwork, empathy and awareness becomes second nature.
How has studying at the Queensland Conservatorium shaped your teaching?
Studying at the Conservatorium provided a wide range of experiences and encouraged me to think differently about music, the world and my artistry. I now draw on those experiences sharing exercises, stories and ideas with my students. While Brisbane isn’t far away, access to orchestral performances can still be difficult for some Sunshine Coast families. I’m excited to bring those experiences back to the community and support the continued growth of orchestral music locally.
How do you keep learning enjoyable for students?
I encourage students to stay curious and think creatively about their music. This might include experimenting with their own bowing or rhythmic patterns when practising scales, or imagining a story behind the piece. I often ask, “If this were music for a movie, what would be on the screen?” That question tends to spark vivid ideas. I also include songs students already know and enjoy – such as pop, movie or musical theatre pieces – alongside traditional repertoire. It keeps them engaged while still supporting their musical development.
What does the role of Concertmaster of SCSO involve?
The Concertmaster is the leader of the orchestra and first violins and works closely with the conductor to help unify the orchestra. At the Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra, the role is especially important because we work with several different conductors. My responsibilities include preparing the bowings for the string section, organising seating and players, sharing rehearsal updates, and ensuring my own part is well prepared. From that position, I can guide the first violins and respond quickly to the conductor during rehearsals and performances.
