Juliette Roumanoff is one of the UNSW Orchestra Concerto winners of 2026. In this interview, Juliette gives us some insight into her musical journey, and how that intersects with her life at UNSW.

Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your journey with music so far?

My musical career started when I was young, in Sydney Children's Choir and primary school ensembles. My entire family was involved with music, so I have always been able to share it with others. When we moved to the south of France briefly I was able to continue my music studies at the Conservatoire d'Avignon before returning to Australia, where I became involved with the Sydney Conservatorium's Rising Stars program. I graduated from the Conservatorium's High School last year, where I studied cello as well as singing and french horn. Music has always been an important part of my life, as not only a form of expression but also a powerful means of connection. 

What are you studying at UNSW?

I am currently studying a degree of Advanced Computer Science.

What is the place that music has in your life, and what is your motivation to sustain that practice in your day to day life?

I love listening to music everyday, whether I am at the gym or travelling. Sharing music with others is always fun, and I find live performance really inspirational. I also love the technical side, as I always feel like I am learning something new and interesting.  

How has participating in music contributed to your experience at UNSW?

As a first year student, I have already met so many interesting people including members of the orchestra. I feel very welcomed by the music faculty at UNSW and am honoured to have been asked to play with UNSWO. 

How did you choose the concerto you'll be performing, and what drew you to this specific piece?

Lalo’s concerto has drama and a Spanish flair that showcases a whole range of emotions. I have loved this piece since first hearing it - I initially only learnt the first movement for another competition, but learning the whole concerto has been an amazing experience.  

Can you share what the preparation process was like for the auditions? Were there any challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?

Most of the preparation process was focused on learning the second movement, as I hadn’t really touched it much at that point. It was challenging to balance this with my new university life and all of my new commitments, but in the end I was able to balance practice and study consistently. 

What aspects of the concerto are you most excited about bringing to life in your performance?

The concerto’s Romantic French style is the main aspect I want to bring out - the character changes, apassionato melodies, and the dramatic theme are all central to my interpretation. Lalo’s Spanish background can also be heard in some of the lighter sections in the Intermezzo, which I think really brings the piece alive. 

Who are some of the musicians or composers that inspire you, and how have they influenced your musical approach?

Out of the recordings of Lalo’s concerto, I love Pierre Fournier’s interpretation of the first movement. I always come back to Yoyo Ma’s version, and would say he has inspired my interpretation the most. My teacher Thomas Tsai has also helped me find the energy and character of every note in the piece, and I am incredibly grateful for that. 

How do you manage balancing your studies and practice time? Do you have any time management tips for other student-musicians?

I sometimes struggle with balancing study and practice, but I have found that even just 20 minutes on the harder days can make a difference. Staying consistent and focused on my goals and the deadlines is what has really helped me so far. 

What advice would you give to fellow students who are pursuing music, especially those who might audition for future concerto competitions?

I would say that it can be hard to prioritise music, especially if it is not your only focus, but it’s important not to forget how powerful music can be and how incredible experiences like these are possible and achievable. 

See Juliette perform at the second UNSW Orchestra concert of the season. Buy tickets here.