‘I feel at home’: Cello teacher, Bronte Ellis, shares her love for performing

·

Cello teacher and vintage clothes curator, Bronte Ellis, wowed The Greek Herald readers on Saturday, September 18 when she performed live on our Facebook page. Clutching her ukulele, she sang in multiple languages including Greek, Spanish and French, and showcased her unique ability to connect with people from different multicultural communities.

In saying this, we sat down to speak to the 29-year-old about how she became involved in the music industry and what advice she has for other aspiring artists.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My father is Greek and my mum is Australian who lives in The Netherlands. My Yiayia and Pappou met each other in Alexandria, Egypt when they were just 12 years old. They fell in love soon after and came to Australia just before my father was born. I grew up in Balmain in Sydney and went to International Grammar School from Preschool to Year 12.

2. When did you first start playing the ukulele and cello / singing?

Bronte Ellis. Photo supplied.

I’ve always sung so I can’t remember exactly when I started but there is a very sweet photo of me singing into a microphone as young as two years old. I started playing the violin when I was four years old and then I told my parents I didn’t want to stand up in orchestra anymore, so they gave me a cello. It stuck and I love that it’s my instrument. I first played a ukulele in high school. My friend taught me ‘Sea of Love’ which I sang in my live set and I fell in love with the smooth, relaxed sound of the instrument.

3. Do you have any musical highlights or performances which made an impact on you?

Growing up I went to lots of Greek weddings and christenings. I fell in love with the vibrant atmosphere. Everybody dancing in perfect unison with so much joy. That’s how I came to love Greek music and my Greek culture. Playing in a traditional Greek band had been a dream of mine for many years so I count myself lucky that I get to play the cello and sing for The D Strings with George Doukas.

4. What do you love the most about performing?

Bronte is also a cello teacher. Photo supplied.

I love the nervousness at the start of every gig. It’s a rush of excited energy that builds up especially in the final hours before going up on stage. I’ve been performing since I was a child, so I feel very at home there. To add, I simply love to create music and I’m thankful for every single opportunity I get to share my music.

5. What would you say to someone else who wants to start playing an instrument or singing?

I would say, it’s never too late to start! My oldest cello student is 78 years old! Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, don’t put any pressure on yourself to be perfect straight away, and embrace the journey.

6. Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Thank you to The Greek Herald for giving live music and local talent a platform while we are all in lockdown here in Sydney. 

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Twin pays heartfelt tribute after shark attack claims surfer Mercury Psillakis’ life

The brother of surfer Mercury Psillakis, killed in a shark attack off Dee Why Beach, has shared a tribute describing their unbreakable bond.

‘Greece and Romiosyni have no borders’: Renos Haralambidis brings his films to Australia

Renos Haralambidis will be honoured with a retrospective at the 30th Greek Film Festival in Sydney this October, showcasing five films.

Nico Lazaridi wines shine at exclusive Sydney hospitality dinner

Nico Lazaridi organised a wine dinner at Alpha Dining on Tuesday night to promote the PGI wines they produce across northern Greece.

Box Hill couple Michael and Rita Nicolaou deny delaying $27m school project

Michael and Rita Nicolaou, who sold their Box Hill property to the state, have denied claims of holding up construction of two new schools.

Former MP Philip Dalidakis slams Daniel Andrews over Beijing parade appearance

Former Victorian Minister Philip Dalidakis has criticised ex-premier Daniel Andrews for attending a military parade in Beijing.

You May Also Like

Greece rejects Turkish Foreign Minister’s claims on minority rights and Cyprus

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stirred controversy on Saturday, June 21, with remarks about Thrace, the Dodecanese, and Cyprus.

Patricia Karvelas opens up about challenges she faces as a LGBTQIA+ journalist

Since she was a teenager, Patricia Karvelas has maintained that she has always been open about her sexuality.

The Greek Herald wants youth to enter its Christmas print cover competition

As the festive season approaches, The Greek Herald newspaper wants youth to participate in its annual Christmas competition.