We are delighted to introduce Emma Davison, the recipient of the inaugural Patricia Brown Choral Scholarship for 2025.

Emma is a second-year student at UNSW, currently studying a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Music and Psychology, and an enthusiastic member of the Collegium Musicum Choir. Emma is currently breaking into the conducting world as a Choral Director at a high school in the Blue Mountains along with conducting the MyEnglish choir at UNSW.

This year, Emma is stepping into a leadership role with the Collegium Musicum, a role made possible by the legacy of Dr. Patricia Brown. Dr. Brown was a beloved Associate Professor of Music at UNSW and the founding director of the choral program. It’s inspiring to see Emma carry forward Dr. Brown’s vision and commitment to choral excellence.

Emma's Journey in Music So Far

"I’ve been surrounded by music my whole life," Emma shares. "Growing up in a family of siblings learning the French horn, flute, piano, and drums, and constantly singing, I was always part of a musical environment."

Emma’s passion for music deepened after watching The Lion King musical as a teenager. "I became obsessed with singing and began singing lessons in high school. At my public school, I was privileged to be cast in three musicals, be part of both senior and junior choirs and their respective eisteddfods and even formed and ran my own girl group called The Corvettes."

After graduating high school, Emma worked with church and community choirs and started teaching private singing students. "I’ve begun taking on private singing students, and now I'm focusing on my work as a choral director," Emma says.

Mentors Who’ve Shaped Emma’s Conducting Approach

Emma has had the opportunity to learn from a variety of conductors and ensembles. "Being both an instrumentalist and a choral singer, I’ve been blessed to experience many kinds of ensembles and conductors. Earlier this year, I participated in the ABODA/ANCA conducting workshop and was mentored by Paul Holley from Birralee Voices in Brisbane. It was a wonderful learning experience and really defined my techniques," Emma shares.

She also draws inspiration from Estonian choral composer and conductor Pärt Uusberg. "I have been a fan of Estonian choral composer and conductor Pärt Uusberg since high school and love all choral repertoire with Baltic roots—probably because of my own Lithuanian heritage."

Closer to home, Emma finds inspiration in Sonia Maddock, the conductor of Collegium Musicum Choir. "Sonia has become a great inspiration to me, showing me how to establish a welcoming rehearsal culture while bringing out the best sound of a group, all while preserving the uniqueness of the ensemble".

The Power of Music and Psychology

Emma’s studies in psychology complement her work as a conductor. "I’ve always used music both to soothe and express my emotions, as I think almost everyone does," she reflects. "It has such a way of tapping into the soul that words alone often can’t. In my life and teaching, I’ve seen how music can mend hearts, dry tears, and unite people. It’s especially powerful seeing a whole choir come together and connect with each other, the music, and the audience."

What’s Next for Emma in 2025?

With the Patricia Brown Choral Scholarship, Emma is excited to continue learning and refining her conducting skills. "I am really looking forward to soaking up all I can from Sonia about all things choir! I want to take that step from being one voice in the choir to being the uniting force. From choosing repertoire to preparing scores, composing for choir, having effective and engaging rehearsals, and helping performers reach their potential—these are all things I am eager to master."

Emma’s Favourite Spots on Campus

When she’s not studying, conducting, or rehearsing, Emma enjoys the peaceful corners of the UNSW campus. "I’ve found many gems on campus, but my top two would have to be the Morvern Brown study space and the water fountain behind the Patricia O’Shane building. Both are so peaceful and are great for just taking a minute to breathe in between lectures, studios, and assignments."

Beyond Music: Other Passions

Growing up in the beautiful Blue Mountains, Emma has developed a love for nature. "Having grown up in the Blue Mountains, I love all things in nature! Hiking, kayaking, camping are all ideal semester break activities. I love going up the mountains in May because the trees are all golden and the air has that perfect crispness to it. Ahh, it’s the best!"

We are excited to see where Emma’s passion for music and conducting will take her in the future. Stay tuned as she continues to inspire and lead within our choral community!